In an effort to catch the first wave of talent for the next century, NBC has become the first broadcast network to open and operate an artistic showcase designed to develop and nurture writers, actors and comedic performers. Known as PSNBC, this 72 seat equity-waiver theater in New York's Soho district began programming on January 6, 2000 and continues to offer emerging artists, with or without representation, a direct path to network casting and development executives. PSNBC is located within the HERE Arts Center at 145 6th Avenue (between Spring and Dominick St's.) The architect of the project is Marc Hirschfeld, Executive Vice President, Casting, NBC Entertainment. Reporting to Hirschfeld is Lou Viola, Producer of PSNBC. "New York has an enormous pool of untapped talent without the resources to develop their work," said Hirschfeld. "The creativity is there, but there are fewer and fewer places in New York where an actor, writer or comedian can develop their work without taking on a huge financial burden in order to reach an audience. PSNBC will provide them with the infrastructure that these artists need to produce their works. It will also be a place that all creative executives in New York can go to find new talent." PSNBC affords the network first-look rights at an array of performers and writers who can rehearse and refine their presentations free-of-charge. PSNBC also provides a lighting designer, stage manager, and other necessary technical support in order to help produce works in progress. Performances are every Monday-Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and are free to the public. Occasionally, additional shows are booked to begin at 9:00 p.m. A monthly calendar of events listing the programs is circulated among agents, casting directors, studio and network executives around the country, and is also posted on this website. Back to top