Talk Jeff City Live is a new form of entertainment brought to you by local artists who want to see local talent promoted on the big screen.
"Our ultimate goal is to build this into something Jefferson City is excited about," said Rachel Steinmeier, head writer for Talk Jeff City Live. "It's really like a late-night talk show/SNL, but based in Jefferson City."
The Jefferson City community will have the opportunity to be a part of a live studio audience for the first filming of the new comedy talk show on April 15. There will be a series of live shows starting at 4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. with the option of live music starting at 7 p.m., all at Avenue HQ on East Capitol Avenue.
The production is a tribute to Josh Harmon, a friend and former partner of the current executive team who initially envisioned the project.
Since Harmon's death in February, Director Josh Schenewerk, Executive Producer Justin Viessman and Steinmeier have taken the project by the horns.
"We're wanting to bring more entertainment to Jefferson City," Schenewerk said.
From his perspective, there's nothing happening between the time slot of 4-9 p.m. because most entertainment options end before 4 p.m. or start after 9 p.m. in the bars.
"My goal is to give anyone who's looking for something to do on Saturday afternoons something to do," Schenewerk said.
In less than a month, the trio has assembled a team of volunteers to help with production, script writing, stage production and technical assistance for varying aspects of the show, which will include rotating hosts and sketch comedy.
"I expect that the first show will set the tone for the rest of the episodes," Viessman said. "This is something we put a lot of effort into."
Steinmeier added: "This show is merely a labor of love."
Mayor Carrie Tergin will host the first three segments of the comedy talk show set to premiere on JCTV, the local public access channel, on April 15.
Starting April 11, anyone interested in attending the shows can get pre-sale tickets from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 9 a.m.-2 p.m Saturday at Second Chance Cottage, 822 Jefferson St. Tickets are $5 for one show and $10 for all three shows.
Attending any of the episode recordings will grant access to the evening of live music. There will be will be a $5 cover to attend only the evening of music at 7 p.m. To purchase tickets, patrons can also contact Schenewerk at [email protected].
The trio credits Quinten Rice, co-owner of Avenue HQ, for being an advocate for bringing entertainment to the Capital City.
"Without him, we would be much more limited to getting this show off the ground," Schenewerk said.
With the show hosted at Avenue HQ, 621 E. Capitol Ave., Shrunken Head Tropical Lounge will provide drinks all day starting at 3:30 p.m.