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Live from New York, we’re taking a closer look at the inner workings of SNL as it gears up to celebrate its landmark 50th anniversary in 2025. The beloved sketch comedy series, which first aired on October 11, 1975, featuring George Carlin as its inaugural host, has made an indelible mark on pop culture over the decades. While the sketches, hosts, and musical guests have consistently evolved to mirror society’s changing dynamics, the show has kept its roots firmly planted in Studio 8H at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York City.
Recently, cast members Heidi Gardner, Ego Nwodim, and Chloe Fineman offered an exclusive tour of the studio in a video for AD. They showcased various behind-the-scenes areas such as the hair, makeup, and wardrobe departments, along with the bustling backstage hallways. Gardner also shared a glimpse into her vibrant dressing room, filled with neon decorations and nostalgic keepsakes that she describes as reminiscent of her teenage years.
Joined by members of the production design team, Joe DeTullio and Akira “Leo” Yoshimura—who has been with the show since its inception—the comedians unveiled several intriguing aspects about the SNL sets. This article compiles some notable highlights in anticipation of the upcoming SNL50: The Anniversary Special, featuring a star-studded lineup that includes Bad Bunny, Miley Cyrus, Sabrina Carpenter, and Tom Hanks, airing on February 16.
The Main Stage’s Evolution, with a Timeless Clock
Every episode features a monologue from the host, delivered from a stage affectionately known as “home base.” Currently, this stage is designed to evoke the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal, though it has seen a myriad of transformations since its debut. According to Yoshimura, the show’s first home base in 1975 was modeled after a comedy club in a West Village brownstone, emphasizing the show’s connection to New York City. Throughout its history, the stage has represented various iconic New York landmarks. Notably, a vintage clock has been a staple on the set for all these years, meticulously maintained by stagehand Joe Riley to always display the correct time.
Efficient Set Changes for Multiple Sketches
Studio 8H boasts six stages, including the music stage and home base. Given the number of sketches produced, the logistical planning to assign sketches to appropriate stages is crucial. Gardner describes the frenetic energy during set transitions, sometimes necessitating changes in mere minutes. The coordinated effort behind the scenes involves around 540 crew members, reflecting the meticulous organization required to produce a live episode.
Handwritten Cue Cards: The Lifeblood of the Show
In an era dominated by digital technology, SNL continues to rely on handwritten cue cards, with each show requiring approximately 1,000 to 1,500 of them. These cards are crafted in real-time, accommodating ongoing modifications during the live broadcast. The color-coded system helps cast members quickly identify their lines, supporting the fast-paced demands of live comedy.
Molds of Cast Members for Quick Prosthetic Application
When new cast members join SNL, the makeup department takes a mold of their face to facilitate rapid prosthetic creation. This unique room holds molds of past and present cast members, enabling the makeup team to conjure various facial features on short notice for sketches.
Extensive Wig Usage and Creation
The hair department is equally prepared, generating a significant number of custom wigs for each episode. Cast members undergo meticulous fittings for head models to ensure quick wig production. Head of hair design, Jodi Mancuso, mentions that while most wigmakers require extensive hours for creation, her team has perfected an efficient process that allows them to produce around 80 wigs per episode, utilizing a comprehensive catalog to track their inventory for recurring characters. Notably, Kenan Thompson’s collection, as the longest-serving cast member, stands out due to his considerable history with the show.
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www.architecturaldigest.com