"SNL" and "30 Rock" going unplugged in NY

By Paul J. Gough

NEW YORK (Hollywood Reporter) - The cast members of two New York-based TV shows that have been crippled by the writers strike, "30 Rock" and "Saturday Night Live," will deliver one-time-only live performances this weekend in Manhattan.

The sold-out shows will take place at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater on West 26th Street, with proceeds going to a strike fund established by the Writers Guild.

"Saturday Night Live" will be performed at 11:30 p.m. Saturday, and "30 Rock" at 8 p.m. Monday. "Superbad" and "Arrested Development" star Michael Cera will be the guest host of "SNL," and the musical guest is alternative rock band Yo La Tengo.

"SNL" cast member Amy Poehler said in a statement late Thursday that the theater is a "second home" to many of the performers and writers.

"We are doing this to raise spirits, raise awareness and raise money for our hardworking production crews who will be having a hard holiday season if this strike continues," Poehler said.

The guild launched its first strike in almost 20 years last week after failing to agree on a new labor contract with the studios. There seems to be no resolution in sight.

At least two stars of the shows, Tina Fey of "30 Rock" and Seth Meyers of "SNL," have been fixtures on the picket line.

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter