Monte-Carlo A Go Go

So we’re back from the fabulous 47th Monte-Carlo Television Festival. The festival, which takes place every year in the wonderful land of money and taste, Monaco, highlights television shows from around the world, and honors the best with awards. I was lucky enough to be asked to be a juror (for comedy and drama series) this year, so, as you’ve learned in my previous post, I ended up watching 22 dramas and 14 comedies form all around the world. Most were good, a few were clunkers, some were excellent. I had a great time (after being bleary-eyed for nearly a week, since each show had two episodes to watch for judging purposes), and it is really a wonderful, well-thought-out and classy festival.

I also must tell you, that if you’re going to go to Monte-Carlo, go as guest of the state! First class airfare, hotel (the fabulous Monte-Carlo Bay Resort — owned by the company Prince Albert II controls), car service, food, luxury, you name it! I had gone to Monte-Carlo as a young vagabond hippie in the late 70′s – and this is so different its not even funny! The awards were presented on Thursday night, June 15th, in a black-tie event at the state-run Grimadli Forum. At the last minute on that day, I was asked to be a presenter for both of the main comedy awards, which was fun, although I am not a presenter-kind-of-guy…

Prior to that day, we’d: met the Prince at his castle for a reception; attended a reception at the Minister of State’s mansion; attended numeorus parties; had a great time in the hotel and the amazing pool. We also attended a black-tie dinner party (for 2000 close-and-presonal friends of the Prince) immedaitely after the awards, at which my wife and I sat next to Sir Roger and Lady Moore (The Saint! James Bond!) and watched the Supremes and the Temptations perform.

All of this is highly recommended; if you can snag an invitation, go!!

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