I've stated in the past that we're big fans of Noggin's Jack's Big Music Show (see here, here, here, here, and here). In fact, it's the only show Zed will watch (I have the only toddler in the world that doesn't like Elmo (and you have no idea how proud that makes me)). Shortly before Zed's second birthday, we were trying to track down ANY type of Jack's Big Music Show merchandise to buy as a gift. Unable to find anything other than the Season One CD, I went right to the source: Spiffy Pictures, the creators of Jack's Big Music Show. After exchanging a few emails, I asked them if they would be interested in answering some questions via email. They agreed (be forewarned: I've never done anything like this before).
Spiffy Pictures consists of David Rudman, Todd Hannert, and Adam Rudman. David Rudman is an Emmy Award-winning puppeteer who provides the voice of Jack as well as Sesame Street's Cookie Monster and Little Bear. Todd Hannert is responsible for set design and songwriting for Jack's Big Music Show. Adam Rudman is the head writer for Jack's Big Music Show and is a six-time Emmy Award-winning writer for Sesame Street and Cyberchase.
The three of you have been involved with children's television for many years. What made you decide to venture into the world of children's television?
It just kind of happened that way, really. We can't think of a good reason why! Great answer, huh?
What inspired you to make music the focus of the show?
It was actually an idea from Noggin to develop a music show. We're all music lovers, so it was right up our alley.
For the average episode, how long does it take to move from initial concept to finished product?
Another hard to answer question, Cynical Dad! To average each show out that way is difficult, but maybe... three months?
Can you describe your creative process?
What a cynical question! (kidding...) The three of us have worked together for many years, so it is pretty defined yet undefined. We do our best work just sitting around talking about funny ideas and go from there.
What has been your favorite episode so far?
We all have favorites, they're all like our children. That's a cynical answer from us :) Maybe the "Jack's Big Orchestra" episode?
How did Jon Stewart and Cheryl Hines wind up on your show?
They both love the show and watch it daily with their children! Pretty cool, huh?
Will there be a third season of Jack's Big Music Show?
We don't know about that at this point, as the second season is pretty new to everyone. Hopefully we won't wait as long to shoot new ones than we did for the first-second season. Even though our fans really stuck with us. Thanks!
Who would be your dream non-musical guest on Jack's Big Music Show?
I think we may have already had them! Jon Stewart and Cheryl Hines! They were sooooo great!
Who would be your dream musical guest on Jack's Big Music Show?
A 23-year-old Bob Dylan? Or maybe a sixty-year-old John Mayer?
Currently the only merchandise available from Jack's Big Music Show is the CD. What other types of merchandise will we eventually see in stores?
We think a second CD and a DVD with four episodes on it, one of them never seen before! (cool, huh?)
Will you be involved in the upcoming Jack's Big Music Show live tour?
We haven't gotten a green light on a live tour. But we would be, for sure.
Can you tell us anything about Bunny Town, your show in development for Disney?
Only that, really. It'll be both puppets and live action, and we think it's going to be pretty cool for all Jack fans.
Song of the day: Love Song by Tesla
An Interview With Spiffy Pictures
