“Willard Beach, The Real Story 2.8” launches April 1

[Judy Beedle photo]

This series is a groundbreaking endeavor on the part of the filmmakers. Not only will they be challenging the traditional concept of storytelling by limiting the episodes to 3 minutes in length, they will be exploring a whole new way of distributing their creation. Rather than channeling through traditional networks, Kaminski and Carson will be placing this series right into the immediate hands of the viewers via the internet.
 
Format is not the only way in which this series stands out. It festively tackles themes and issues that are present in all of our lives, subjects such as infidelity, sexual orientation, loneliness, and how to cope with it all. This is all nicely couched in a familiar setting, and presented with upbeat humor and a light touch.
 
With an ensemble cast of 15 that includes Denise Poirier, Brent Askari, Keith Anctil, Braden Biddings, Harris Cooley, Franklin McMahon and Michael Best, the show's crew of talented actors bring not just a refreshing and quirky naturalism to their performances, they also share in storyline creation since the project is built out of improv and without any script. "Working with these actors is so exciting," Kaminski says. "And you can't write this stuff # the dialogue absolutely sparkles with the cadences of every day speech." The improvised nature of the approach guarantees that the audience will be kept guessing at every turn.
 
The production is crewed with both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic newcomers all of whom are considered collaborators by the two creator-producers. Carson says, "We're lucky to have such a great bunch of people helping us bring this series to life. We're all working to make this project something really special. And even better, it's funny."
 
Not only are Carson and Kaminski aided by local actors and crew members, the community is getting in on the act as well. The Q St. Diner, Trademark Builders, Empire Dine and Dance, Enterprise Records, and Aucocisco Gallery are just a few of the local businesses loaning their unique style to the show. "Using real locations is what gives the series its sense of place," Kaminski says. "It never ceases to amaze me how generous the people of this community are and how united those of us are who make art here. It's inspiring."
 
With weekly episodes that average 3 minutes, "Willard Beach, The Real Story 2.8" promises to be a series so engaging it will become a topic of conversation everywhere. Catch it at 2point8.tv, willardbeach.tv, iTunes, YouTube, Facebook, and everywhere video is playing onlilne.