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Roll of the dice

Programming executives descend on Las Vegas in search of the next big hit

By Ken Kerschbaumer -- Broadcasting & Cable, 1/21/2001 7:00:00 PM

It's time to get down to business. In the past few weeks, we've helped get your NATPE journey headed in the right direction, with information on the new syndicated product and the off-net product that may find its way into your business plans. But after weeks of announcements, planning and negotiating, the real talk starts on the floor of the Las Vegas Convention Center on Jan. 22.

The general vibe heading into this year's show seems to be one of caution. Broadcasters are always on the hunt for programs that will draw better audiences, but extraordinary events this past fall such as the election that didn't want to end and a late-summer Olympics have many broadcasters wondering if the ratings books are reality or a mirage. It may only be fitting that this year's convention is held in a city known for its make-believe reality. Can broadcasters believe the ratings they see?

Given the inability to feel comfortable about judging fall ratings, many station execs are heading to Las Vegas not quite sure if they want to (or need to) replace programs on their current schedules. It all makes for a NATPE that will require studios to sell harder, stations to evaluate better and talent to shine brighter.

Of course, with so much hard work facing attendees there will be a need to blow off some steam, and there are a number of invitation-only parties that promise to do just that. Granted, Las Vegas has plenty of things to do, but the following events promise to be worth the effort to gain entry. Getting in is, of course, the tricky part.

On Monday night, Entertainment Tonight celebrates its 20th anniversary at the House of Blues in the Mandalay Bay hotel. From 9 p.m. to midnight, the party will feature George Thorogood and the Destroyers.

Tuesday night offers music of a different sort, as Pearson will hold a party at the MGM Grand that will have the Brian Setzer Orchestra jumping and jiving. Another invite-only event, it will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

And Wednesday brings a double bill, with Tribune Entertainment and Don Cornelius taking over the aforementioned House of Blues to celebrate 30 years of Soul Train. Smokey Robinson and Grammy nominees Destiny's Child will hit the stage.

Boxing fans will have a chance to catch a six-fight heavyweight boxing card at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, courtesy of Litton Inc. and its new program, Thunderbox. The opening bell is at 7 p.m.

What's new in first-run? / Diversity is the key component to this year's first-run offerings, with a little bit of everything available.

Heading for off-net / The off-net market is sitcom heavy, but dramas such as Buffy, the Vampire Slayer and West Wing attract their share of attention.

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