Old Globe Theatre and UCSD-TV recently launched a new series of half-hour programs called "Backstage at the Globe." Each program features a different Globe production and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how each Globe show is produced, including rehearsal footage, insights from Globe artistic director Jack O'Brien, as well as interviews with directors, designers, actors and playwrights.

Programs focus on the process of mounting each show on one of the Globe's three stages, from tackling a challenging technical element to building an elaborate costume, to hearing an actor's perspective on an intriguing role. Directors share their visions of the production and design artists give audiences a taste of the creative process.

The series kicked off with programs on the two current Globe productions, Three Days of Rain and The Magic Fire. The programs will continue to be aired throughout the run of each play.

UCSD-TV runs on Cox Cable Channel 76, North County Cox Cable Channel 58, Time Warner Cable Channel 18, Del Mar TV 3 or UHF (no cable) Channel 35. Thirteen programs are scheduled to air throughout the Globe's Festival '99 and Season '00.

"We are thrilled to begin this collaborative process with UCSD-TV," said O'Brien. "These stimulating, in-depth programs allow us to share the fresh and exciting work being created by Globe's artists -- both on stage and backstage -- with San Diego-area viewers." -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent