An Awkward Holiday BarBeQuay

You’re at a relaxed holiday barbecue.  You’re enjoying a beer and some discussion on the latest trends in [insert your interest] when you hear some clanking, or whistling, and then suddenly you’re standing awkwardly as someone across the room drones on, with occasionally mildly funny but forced, pre-planned witticism.  You sip your beer and laugh courteously, wondering when the entertainment will end.

Like this feelling?  You’ll love Maina TV’s BarBeQuay.

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Sponsored by ATT, created by the TV-experienced Mason Steinberg (Crank Yankers) and hosted by the 19-year old Jonah Ray (of SuperDelux’s The Freeloaders Guide to Easy Living), the concept and style of this online talk show are refreshingly unique.  It looks great, and its laid back sensibility fit the web.

“This is a great format for showcasing prominent comedians and actors in an informal, real-life setting,” said Amber J Lawson, Mania TV’s VP of programming.

But the first episode makes me squirm with discomfort: stilted conversation intercut with forced jokes and self-conscious storytelling.

Hey maybe this format just didn’t serve its first guest.  Steve Agee, after all, probaly isn’t known as the life of the party.  Lets see what other guests to the BBQuay.