Laura Gómez: You have been involved in projects such as the Wipeout production center, Fear Factor and Wild Things in Argentina: the Masterchef Hub in Bolivia, the 4 Elements Challenge in Mexico, among others. Tell us, what was it that caught your attention about this particular way of producing television shows?
Juan Manuel Urdampilleta: Working in a production HUB is an exciting experience and at the same time different from the traditional way of doing TV. One of the key factors that motivated me to get involved in them is the possibility of offering a high level of quality in production; at the same time that we can offer a more attractive cost due to the optimization of resources. In these HUBs, the same television show can be recorded for different countries or clients taking advantage of the same set, avoiding the need to build multiple expensive sets in each of the countries that want to have their own season of that same show.
Laura Gómez: I understand that production efficiency and cost savings are important benefits. Could you explain to us how a production HUB works and what key aspects should be considered for its success?
Juan Manuel Urdampilleta: Sure, Laura. A production HUB is an operations center from which multiple versions of the same program are produced and coordinated for different countries or clients. In these types of facilities, there is a recording set and an adequate technical infrastructure to carry out productions efficiently. In addition, all services related to logistics for the client must be available, such as hotels, local transportation and meals, since the talents and participants must travel to the country where the HUB is located.
Laura Gómez: One of the key aspects is the adaptability of the set to accommodate the specific requirements of each version of the program. This implies having a versatile set design accompanied by a talented art team that can adapt to the different needs of each client, such as the language of the logos and graphics, as well as any other specific production request of each client. In addition, specialized human resources, both production and technical, must be available to handle the demands of recording multiple versions.
Laura Gómez: I understand, the versatility of the set and the logistics are essential for the success of a production HUB. Could you share an anecdote or memorable experience that you have lived in one of these HUBs?
Juan Manuel Urdampilleta: Of course! One memorable experience was during the construction of the Masterchef set in Bolivia. It was incredible to see how the production team from Bolivia worked closely with our team with more than 10 years of experience to adapt the program to the Bolivian culture and gastronomy. Additionally, during the Wild Things Hub in Argentina, we faced unique challenges working with exotic animals and ensuring their well-being on set. It was a painstaking and delicate job, but the end result was exciting and we managed to create a unique and fun show that captivated the whole family.
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