Workshop Social Events

[Guest guest]

Hi everyone,

I wanted to give you an update on the social events I had alluded to several weeks ago that are planned for the TFCA Workshop for Financial Coordinators in February.

On Wednesday, February 16 from 4:30 -, courtesy of & Fujisawa Healthcare, a Welcome Reception will be held at Barefoot Restaurant (http://www.barefootrestaurant.com) The restaurant is located between Burns Drive & Arnaz Drive, approximately 2 blocks from the Hotel Sofitel.

TFCA has obtained a 45 tickets to attend the taping of the CBS comedy, "King of Queens" on Friday, February 18, 2005. Unfortunately, studio policy will not allow admittance of anyone under the age of 16, even if accompanied by a parent. In addition, Sony Picture Studios, which produces the show, is no longer providing complimentary group bus transportation, so while the tickets for the taping itself are free, there will be a $15/person charge for round-trip bus transportation from the Hotel Sofitel. Tentative departure time is 2:45 pm on February 18, 2005 and we must check-in at the studio by 3:30pm. The taping itself starts at 5:00 pm w/an estimated end time of 8:30pm. Should there be sufficient demand, we may be able to obtain tickets for a second taping, of a different show, that night, so if this is something you are interested in, I strongly encourage you to register ASAP!! A few other points to consider when attending a taping:

* Is there a lot of standing or walking? Are there stairs?Most studios do not provide benches or seating areas at check in so you may be standing for some time before going to the soundstage. Some stages are very close to the check-in area, but please be aware that most studio facilities are fairly large and there may be a long walk from check-in to the soundstages. Once you are in the audience seating area at most studios, there may be a small flight of stairs leading to the seating area. The TV studios are not like a movie theatre in that the audience is, more often than not, in a "bleacher" area consisting of benches and/or individual seats accessed by a short flight of stairs. * Are the studios wheelchair accessible?Most soundstages can only accommodate one or two wheelchairs or guests that cannot negotiate stairs on the studio floor due to space constraints and safety concerns. Studios allow one person to be seated with a disabled guest on the floor but space is strictly limited! If you, or someone in your party uses a wheelchair, has a disability or otherwise requires assistance, please let us know ASAP after submitting your order to reserve space! Any special accommodations are subject to availability and are at the discretion of the studio facility and/or Fire Marshal.* Is there a dress code?Guests are encouraged to dress comfortably; however, some productions that show the audience on camera such as "America's Funniest Home Videos", ask that guests refrain from wearing shorts, jeans, Tshirts and/or clothing with large words, photos or logos as these are easily seen on camera and can be distracting. As a rule, if the audience is seen on camera, dressy attire (slacks/jackets) is preferred! Special productions or award shows may request more dressy (jackets for men) or even semi-formal attire. * I heard that it's cold in the studios.It may be! Everyone reacts differently to ambient temperatures and conditions vary on all soundstages, but please be advised that TV studios are usually kept cool to counteract heat generated by the hot lights and equipment. To insure your comfort, you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater with you. * Will we be able to meet the cast?You may find that there is an opportunity for a handshake or an autograph; however, we are unable to promise that or arrange it. Interaction with the studio audience is at the discretion of the cast and may be affected by time constraints and the number of guests in the studio. Remember, although they appreciate your presence, these people are working! * May we take pictures?Sorry, copyright, security and union regulations prohibit guests from bringing cameras (still or video) and recording devices of any kind into the studios. * How long do the shows last?Most half-hour comedies take at least 2 to 3 hours to tape or film an episode. The actual time depends on a number of factors including possible re-takes of scenes (the "bloopers" you don't see at home) or technical problems. Please allow enough time for your visit to the studio. * How many people are in the audience?Audience capacity varies on the different soundstages depending in part on the particular show's set configurations. The majority of the stages are set up to accommodate 150 - 250 guests. * What's expected of the audience?Have a good time! Clap, laugh and enjoy the show! You are there as guests of the production company and your applause and laughter are appreciated.... and, are a very important part of the show. You're there to provide feedback and live reaction for the actors who in turn, enjoy performing for you. Please keep in mind however; that this is a working studio, an important and expensive production, and all guests - in exchange for studio admission - are expected to follow instructions and abide by the rules and regulations of our company, the show's production staff, the studio facility and studio security. Anyone who chooses to interfere with our staff or the production in any way may be escorted off the studio property.

TFCA has also obtained a limited number of discounted tickets for the "VIP Experience" tour at Universal Studios for Saturday, February 19, 2005. The VIP Experience Tour is approximately 6 hours in length; 2 ½ hours is spent exploring the working backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood, 2 ½ hours is devoted to a guided, in-depth exploration of the theme park (including priority entrance and seating for all shows and attractions in the park) and an hour for lunch at one of the park's many restaurants (cost of food/beverage at lunch is not included in the ticket price). The remainder of the day is yours to explore the park or visit CityWalk next door where more than 65 shops and restaurants await. Please see the "VIP Experience" One Sheet from Universal Studios Hollywood on the Workshop website or visit their website at http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com for further information. Tickets for this are $128.00/person and include round-trip bus transportation to and from the Hotel Sofitel.

If you plan to attend any of these events, including the Welcome Reception on Wednesday, please complete & return the Social Events Registration Form on the Workshop Website at http://www.tfcassociation.org/workshop.htm, along w/any applicable payment, ASAP. Any questions, please feel free to contact me directly at LAguiar@....

Hope to see all of you in February!

J. Aguiar

Beth Israel Deaconess, Boston