Local duo Jeff and Paige launch nature-themed kids' show on PBS
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Jeff Kagan, Paige Doughty and Shaun Derik of "Rainbow Socks." Photo: Courtesy Rainbow Socks
Boulder-based children's entertainers and husband-wife duo Jeff Kagan and Paige Doughty are expanding their science and nature musical act into a new PBS series shot locally.
Why it matters: Broadening access to science and conservation education for families through engaging local programming is especially vital amid public media and public lands funding cuts.
State of play: Kagan and Doughty, who have been performing live in Boulder and throughout the Front Range for more than 20 years, secured the funding to start filming "Rainbow Socks" in April.
- The TV show will air on Rocky Mountain PBS after all of Season One is filmed. Kagan told Axios Boulder they are set to resume filming more Season One episodes in November.
- The production team includes Emmy-winning producer Dia Savage, the longtime showrunner for MTV's "16 and Pregnant" and "Teen Mom" franchises.
What to expect: Kagan told Axios Boulder the show "blends science, music and storytelling." And, of course, their signature zany antics and colorful outfits.
- The series is being filmed in Boulder and features local children.
- Kagan and Doughty will be joined on the show by a third cast member, Shaun Derik, a performer and youth motivational speaker.
- Fun fact: You might also recognize Kagan as co-founder of Boulder's Tube to Work Day, if that's any indication of how his brain works.
Between the lines: Kagan said shows like "Rainbow Socks" are especially important now as public broadcasters locally and nationwide face budget cuts.
- "We believe it's more vital than ever to champion original community-grown and mission-driven content for families," Kagan said. "'Rainbow Socks' is our local answer to that moment."
If you go: A fundraiser and special advanced screening of the first episode will take place at 10am Sunday at the Colorado Chautauqua Auditorium.
- The event will showcase a live performance from Jeff and Paige, interactive activities and behind-the-scenes stories from the show's team.
- Tickets are $17.95, and funds raised will go toward production costs.
What we're watching: Even as they are set to resume filming, Kagan told Axios Boulder they aren't going to stop their live local shows.
- "Live performances are the heart of what we do," Kagan said. "We intend to keep rocking on the stage for years to come."