Join The NOCCA Institute as we celebrate NOCCA’s new Culinary Arts program with a series of events called ART OF THE FEAST. From October 11 – 25, you’ll have the opportunity to sample dishes inspired by a NOCCA student, catch up on episodes of the long-lost TV series Frank’s Place about a fictional New Orleans restaurant, and even become a NOCCA student for two unforgettable afternoons. Find the full schedule of events at ArtOfTheFeast.com.
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A SCREENING OF FRANK’S PLACE
October 11 at 7:30pm
In NOCCA’s Freda Lupin Memorial Hall
Featuring actor Tim Reid and creator Hugh Wilson
Q&A with Reid, Wilson, and Lolis Elie, moderated by Poppy Tooker, followed by a reception
Cost: $15
CLICK HERE TO ORDER TICKETS NOW!
When writer and NOCCA alum Lolis Elie and HBO’s Treme first gave us the opportunity to screen episodes of the short-lived, much-loved sitcom Frank’s Place in 2010, the response from the public was overwhelming. Though the series about a reluctant New Orleans restaurateur only lasted for a year, locals remember it fondly. Join us in NOCCA’s Freda Lupin Memorial Hall for a few more episodes – and be sure to stick around for some Q&A with lead actor, Tim Reid, the series’ creator, Hugh Wilson, Lolis Elie, and moderator Poppy Tooker (another proud NOCCA alum!). Reception to follow with desserts by NOCCA Culinary Arts students and coffee by French Market Coffee.
About Frank’s Place
During the 1987-1988 television season, Tim Reid and Hugh Wilson brought CBS viewers as close to New Orleans as any television series had ever done with Frank’s Place. In the first episode, Frank Parrish, a reluctant restaurateur, plans to sell Chez Louisiane, the family restaurant he inherited. But soon he finds himself elbow deep in food, family debt, and eccentric characters.
The show won widespread praise for its combination of comedy, drama, and light-hearted plots peppered with discussions of weighty issues. “I wanted to provide America with a glimpse of the black American culture that so rarely is seen on TV,” Reid said.
Despite critical acclaim, the show was off the air after only one season. The show’s 22 episodes are not available for home viewing.
“Having been associated with “Frank’s Place” is one of the most important and fulfilling segments of my career,” Reid said. “I remember meeting the late [CBS chairman] William Paley, who was a fan of the show, and saying to him, ‘thanks for creating a medium which allowed me the opportunity to reveal a slice of my culture.’
“He smiled and replied, ‘No, thank you.’ I will never forget that moment,” Reid said.