Citytv’s Package Deal to tape in front of live Vancouver-area audience

From a media release:

Citytv Announces Start of Live, Studio Audience Production for Original Comedy Series, Package Deal

• Multi-camera comedy series created by Emmy-award nominated producer Andrew Orenstein (Malcolm in the Middle)
• Acclaimed Canadian comedians Harland Williams (There’s Something About Mary) and Jay Malone (Monk) headline ensemble cast
• Production begins October 21 in front of a live studio audience in Burnaby, B.C.

Citytv and Thunderbird Films today announced that production begins Sunday, Oct. 21 on the new original multi-camera comedy Package Deal. Taping in front of a live studio audience in Burnaby, B.C, the 13-episode, half-hour series from critically acclaimed creator Andrew Orenstein (Malcolm in the Middle, 3rd Rock from the Sun) is slated to air in 2013 on Citytv. The writing team also includes Denise Moss (Frasier, Roseanne), and veteran stand-up comedian Stevie Ray Fromstein (Roseanne, Reba). Full broadcast details to be announced at a later date.

Package Deal follows three overly-close brothers and the woman who comes between them. When Kim (Julia Voth, Bitch Slap) starts dating Danny (Randal Edwards, Degrassi:The Next Generation, The Killing), he seems too good to be true – a successful lawyer, charming, and single. Then, she discovers he’s already committed – to his two older brothers, Sheldon (Harland Williams, There’s Something About Mary) and Ryan (Jay Malone, Monk).

“Citytv is committed to delivering Canadians fresh new content,” said Claire Freeland, Director of Original Programming, Broadcast, Rogers Media. “Package Deal is currently the only Canadian adult sitcom to be shot in front of a live studio audience and we are excited to offer a new way for viewers to engage with our programming by seeing the production come to life first-hand.”

“In-studio filming presents a unique opportunity for audiences to get a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of the filming process, along with an evening of free entertainment,” said Thunderbird President Michael Shepard.

The first live audience tapings of Package Deal take place Sunday, Oct. 21 and 28. Following these dates, the tapings continue each Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. in Burnaby, B.C. For more information about studio location and to reserve seats, viewers can email packagedealtickets@gmail.com.

An example of the Citytv’s strong commitment to original Canadian programming, Package Deal joins the roster of high-profile original series currently in production for the network, including Seed and The Bachelor Canada.