A Lively Experiment - democracy with a Rhode Island accent - wraps up 2018 in style by unveiling a new set (see images on our Facebook page), a new podcast, and a new format. The first look at the set is Friday, December 14 at 7 p.m., with encore Sunday, December 16 at noon on WSBE Rhode Island PBS.
"The new set is absolutely beautiful,” said Rhode Island PBS President David W. Piccerelli. “A Lively Experiment has been our flagship program for more than 30 years. During that time, we have made large and small changes, improving the viewers’ experience along the way. We will continue to evaluate and evolve the format to ensure viewers benefit from timely, insightful, and intelligent discussion each week, delivered to viewers using the most advanced technology available to us.”
“The podcast is an important step in reaching our audience where and when they want to listen to the show,” said Kim Keough, executive producer. “We are delighted to launch this ‘on-demand’ content to complement our scheduled broadcast, and online on our Website and YouTube channel, plus connect with viewers through social media.”
The show’s freshened format introduces three panelists at the desk with Jim Hummel, moderator of A Lively Experiment since 2016. This format permits each guest additional time for more comprehensive analysis and insight into the topics. Episodes will continue to feature pre-produced interviews and video segments to put stories in context and enhance the conversation.
“Our team produces a dynamic ‘must-see’ political affairs program every week. Now this new format allows more in-depth discussions, building on what makes Lively so unique," said Ms. Keough.
"We have found that our viewers like the show’s focus to be on Rhode Island politics and stories. The changes we are implementing favor a broader range of local stories, giving viewers more of what they want to see. We believe the new format is well-suited to Jim’s deep-rooted understanding of the Rhode Island political landscape.”
The new set, with its corner framing, contemporary style, sleek video panels, and scenic backdrop, was designed and installed by Mystic Scenic Studios, Inc., of Norwood, MA, award-winning broadcast environment designers and fabricators.
While Change is Good, Continuity is Also Important
Representing both independent and partisan viewpoints, the weekly half-hour show features a revolving panel of television, radio, newspaper, and online journalists, political scientists, pundits, economists, opinion leaders, elected and appointed officials. Panelists examine local and state issues emanating from Town Halls to Smith Hill, and even the halls of Congress and the White House, collectively representing the state’s diversity of opinion on topics important to all citizens.
A Lively Experiment’s popular segment, “Outrage of the Week,” will also continue. Typifying the essence of the show’s political commentary, this segment features an eclectic collection of each guest's single most significant issue of the week.
Where to Find A Lively Experiment
Underwritten by John Hazen White, Jr., owner of Taco Comfort Solutions, A Lively Experiment airs on WSBE Rhode Island PBS (36.1) Fridays at 7 p.m., with rebroadcasts on Saturdays at 7 p.m. on WSBE Learn (36.2), and Sundays at noon on WSBE Rhode Island PBS.
Episodes of A Lively Experiment are available online on the Rhode Island PBS Website and Rhode Island PBS YouTube channel, usually the next business day after the first broadcast. Subscribers to the YouTube channel are notified when a new episode is ready for viewing. Viewers can also join the conversation on Facebook and on Twitter. Podcasts will be available on iTunes.
WSBE Rhode Island PBS transmits standard-definition (SD) and high-definition (HD) programming over the air on digital 36.1; on RI cable: Cox 08 / 1008HD, Verizon FiOS 08 / 508HD, and Full Channel 08; on MA cable: Comcast 819HD and Verizon FiOS 18 / 518HD; on satellite: DirecTV 36, Dish Network 36. WSBE Learn transmits over the air on digital 36.2; in Rhode Island on Cox 808; Verizon FiOS 478; Full Channel 89; and in Massachusetts on Comcast 294 or 312.
