Local dating 'reality' show hopes to land deal

By Wayne Harada
Advertiser Entertainment Writer

"The Lei," a TV dating "reality" show now being shopped to local network affiliates and cable stations, has completed a pilot. Its producer, 808 Fade-in Productions, hopes to be on air by August.

A permanent host is being sought, along with a roster of young women and men, who would be the dating subjects in the half-hour program.

"It's a reality-based dating show, about two guys and one girl, or two girls and one guy, who have two dates — a daytime date and a night date — with one of the guys and one of the girls being eliminated," said Ian M. Fernandez, 25, casting director and co-producer.

He and Fade-In partner Michael Anthony Paz, 32, hope to capitalize on Hawai'i's beautiful people and beautiful places, and put a local spin on the reality craze. It is the second reality show now in production here; the other is "Hawai'i Beauties of the Beach," pegged to launch shortly on K5 The Home Team, the Warner Bros. affiliate here.

The format will pit two would-be dates, with one being eliminated by the end of the show. "The Lei" takes its name from the fact that the winner will receive a lei for making the cut. There won't be audience-voting participatory elements, though dates may be slated at local clubs, where spectators may influence the outcome through applause or cheers.

For more information, call 392-4012.