Behind the Scenes at Metro Cruise with WKTV
What does it take to pull off a one-of-a-kind classic car event? A whole lot of volunteers, dedicated employees, proud car owners, a carefully designed set and gorgeous classic cars.
WKTV’s two hour live television show, “2013 Metro Cruise LIVE, the Concourse” was held on August 23, 2013 from 8-10p.m. The production was a huge undertaking.
“We had a 75 foot long 30 foot red carpet, bleachers for crowd seating, and Hollywood searchlights crossing the night sky,” said General Manager Tom Norton who was the producer of the show.
Show Director Gene Gregory worked with more than 45 volunteers and staff members to pull off the event.
“The event was a challenge. I loved directing this project and creating something to be very proud of,” he said. “There were over 280 segments and working with the crew, car owners, and show line up all came together nicely.”
Some of the classic cars that appeared were a Lamborghini Reventon valued at 1.6 million, a 1940 Cadillac LaSalle, a 1966 Jaguar, a 1911 Pierce Arrow and many more.
Nate Diedrich, Operations Manager of the show was captivated by all the attention to details necessary to pull of an event of this magnitude.
“To see the 22 cars come out on the red carpet and know it was a result of so much hard work was very satisfying,” he said.
He also added that next year sponsorships will be obtained to cover the expenses of the event.
And what’s in place for next year: “Given the economic impact of the Metro Cruise, WKTV has a real interest in seeing it succeed year after year. We really believe that the concourse red carpet event will go a long way in continuing that reality,” Norton concluded.
