Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1504681
surrounding a thrust where the host monologue and some performances could take place. The home-base set was meant to evoke a basement underground club, like one you might find down in the Village with the host entering by coming down a flight of stairs. Eugene's idea was to have a completely 360-degree theatrical experience within the studio and have that be what the cameras and the home audience discover. At the time, it was a completely revolutionary approach that would influence so much of what came afterward, including MTV, by almost a decade. Eugene's first hire to be his Art Director was Leo Yoshimura, who had been recommended by the owner of a Broadway construction shop where he had sometimes worked as a draftsman. Gene told me Leo showed up for his interview carrying a small red toolbox of drafting supplies and simply said, "When do we start?" It may be more legend A. 1976 SEASON ONE HOME BASE DURING A VALENTINE'S DAY SKETCH. B. SEASON FIVE HOME BASE FROM THE 1979- 1980 SEASON C. 1976 MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY RY COODER. D. 1977 MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY SANTANA. E. PAUL SIMON PERFORMING ON STAGE IN 1977. IMAGES COURTESY OF NBC. A B