My name is James-Michael Roddy. I am the Manager: Show Concepts and Scripts for Universal Studios Escape. I am also the Writer/Director of Bill & Ted's Shagadelic Halloween Adventure. The show runs the month of October as part of Universal Studios Florida's Halloween Horror Nights!
Q: How many times has the park put on a Bill & Ted Halloween Show?
A: This was our eighth year.
Q: What was different about this year's show compared to earlier ones?
A: This was my first year completely alone in the creation. I had co-directed in years past. This year we strived to redefine the show - it was becoming formulaic. We created a new "twist" in the setting and added the element of musical numbers throughout.
Q: Were there auditions for the show? How many people tried out?
A: There were auditions and some characters were added to the show based on their talent, at that audition. A prime example was the American Pie characters. I had toyed with the idea but couldn't figure how to include them. Two of the performers auditioning - June Lindle and Dave Tomasi came in and I knew I had a Jim and Michelle that would start the pre-show and be a thread throughout. Another example was Meghan Maroney as Heather Donahue from the Blair Witch Project.
Q: What did you enjoy (or NOT enjoy
A: It was one of the most incredible times of my career. I am honored to have worked with this cast. They were the best I could have ever dreamed of.
Q: Had you seen either (or both) of the B&T movies before writing the shows? What did you think of them if you did?
A: I studied the first film extensively. I also relied a great deal on Doug McDonald and Kevin Vincent who respectively played William & Theodore. They really brought a lot of truth and integrity to the roles. I relied on them to keep the integrity of the characters.
Q: How did you prepare for your role of writing and directing the shows?
A: I must admit - this being the first one that I was solely responsible for - there was a lot of pressure. I prayed. It's that simple. I left it in God's hands. I wanted the show to be a fun experience and a great memory. It was!
Q: What is your personal favorite "bit" in the show? Least favorite?
A: Favorites - the Jerry Springer moments - the opening number (Wild Wild West). Doctor Evil's entrance. The Mystery Men. The accidental death of William & Theodore and their return as Jedi.
Least Favorite - Marilyn Manson. A good idea but never fully realized - thankless.
Q: Any funny "outtakes" . . . that you'd care to talk about that is?
A: We had so many funny moments that occurred on a nightly basis. One favorite was the inclusion of the infamous "Blink-blink". There was some song that had this refrain. It made us all laugh and slowly crept into the show and got a huge response from the audience.
Q: How was the audience turn-out and reception for the shows?
A: The show was rated the highest ever at Universal for any entertainment offering. That was quite an accomplishment. Again - I thank my cast and crew. They were the reason.
Q: Did anyone complain that the B&T movies were too "old", or did the younger audience members seem to enjoy them?
A: This is always a concern, but to me personally I think the characters are timeless.
Q: Would you like to work on the show again, given the opportunity?
A: I start to work on the new Bill and Ted in a matter of weeks. If anyone has any ideas . . .
Q: Has getting into the "minds" of B&T effected or changed you or your outlook in any way?
A: They are part of a wonderful memory, and like good friends I am anxious to visit them again.
Q: Tell us what other projects you have worked on in the past and are working on right now!
A: I am working on a project based on the Upcoming Jim Carrey Grinch film as well as projects for The Flinstones - Viva Rock Vegas. I am gearing up to start Halloween Concepts (including William & Theodore). I am also writing a new screenplay as well as starting to produce an independent film.
We have learned that James-Michael Roddy left Universal Studios some time after this interview. If you would like to read another online interview with him, click here!
