Backstage Look at Rehearsals with "The Hold"
Posted November 25, 2011 2:09 PM
Show weeks at SNL can be a real whirlwind. Basically, following read-thru on Wednesdays, we have only two days to get all the sets built, painted and decorated, the costumes and wigs made and fit for our cast/host, and the sketches get a run-through for camera blocking and lighting. Whirlwind. Camera blocking starts on Thursdays, and while it is a great opportunity for the cast to run through their lines and action, it is more importantly used for lighting cues, figuring out camera angles and finding everyone their best marks. This results in a good amount of downtime for the cast when they are told to "hold" for a camera or lighting adjustment. And as you can imagine, when a group of funny people are left to their own devices (even for a few minutes) comedy ensues.
Here's a look at a moment from "The Hold" during the Melissa McCarthy show rehearsals where Kenan and Fred used the downtime to entertain their fellow castmates and the host with a little improv'd song and dance.
