Wow! I can't even tell you how long it's been since my last Emmy FYC event! I have not been out and about socializing in so long and I’m just craving to get back out there and hit all these FYC (For Your Consideration) events! There are many happening this year, and so when I received the invitation for the "The First Lady" Emmy FYC event, I absolutely jumped on it. What set this event apart and made it EXTRA exciting is that it was going to be different from the usual Emmy FYC event of watching an episode following a Q&A with a talent panel. This “The First Lady” Emmy FYC event was all about the set decorating, graphics, and props - all things that are up my alley!
These Emmy FYC events are like little parties that networks/ streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and NBC have to present their programs to Emmy voters. I’ve had the honor of attending these events for years, and with that I’ve seen so many panels and many great shows, and overall it’s really a fun experience. It is also a great way to network with other departments too.
I went to this event for "The First Lady", which is airing on Showtime, and is described as "In the East Wing of the White House, many of history's most impactful and world-changing decisions have been hidden from view, made by America's charismatic, complex and dynamic first ladies". I haven’t gotten a chance to watch it yet, but I think it looks superb and I love Michelle Pfeiffer who plays Betty Ford, Michelle Obama is played by Viola Davis, and Eleanor Roosevelt is being played by Gillian Anderson. I’m sure it’s phenomenal!
This event was at the Ritz Carlton in Downton Los Angels. The suite was dressed with items from the Betty Ford episode from the 70's era. They had transformed one of their penthouse hotel rooms by decorating it with set dressing, props, and graphics from the show to immerse you in this world. Everything that they brought in was fantastic and very detailed. Sofas, lamps, and even a dining room filled the spaces to put you in the 70's vibe. They had Betty Ford's vanity set up with her makeup and pills. Her bedside table was dressed with letters that she had written. There were many campaign signs, hero magazines, and paintings that were placed on tables and walls.
One of my critiques would be that the space was so modern that the 70's dressing felt a little out of place. It’s a lot of work to put the furniture, art, graphics, and dresses, together. I really love the effort and the emphasis on the design of the show.
If you are a part of the Academy you should hit some of these Emmy FYC events happening this year. They are interesting and usually, they have good food and free alcohol! But it is a good thing to get out there and see someone else’s project. Opening your perspective to other ideas is always a good thing!
Overall, I had a wonderful time attending the “The First Lady” Emmy FYC event and I’m looking forward to attending many more of the course of this year!