Here is a surprising Parks and Recreation reunion that I'm so not complaining about. As reported by Deadline, Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman are co-hosting a reality TV series called The Handmade Project. It comes from Poehler's Paper Kite Productions and is an unscripted competition series that has received a six-episode straight-to-series order by NBC. It is described as a show that "celebrates artisanship and the makers who can create amazing things with their hands … and a few tools too."
Eight "all-around makers, from all walks of life" will be featured and will take on different themes and create hand-made items, with the level of difficulty increasing as the weeks go on. It is filmed in an outdoor setting and is said to "focus on the characters and camaraderie of those who enjoy creating their own crafts, all under the comedic guidance of Poehler and Offerman." Obviously, a winner will be crowned at the end. Not only will the contestants have to impress Poehler and Offerman, but also expert judges. Hmm... it sounds awfully similar to The Great British Baking Show, doesn't it?
According to Deadline, Poehler is a "self-proclaimed crafting novice" and Offerman owns the Offerman Woodshop in Los Angeles. "I’m thrilled to be celebrating artists who make things by hand, and I’m looking forward to finally conquering my fear of paper mache," Poehler said in a statement. As for Offerman, he commented,
"People who make things are my favorite kind of folk. Practical, clever and terrific in a pinch. That makes me tickled pink to have a front row seat at this prodigious display of talent, and admiring and cheering on an amazing crop of American makers. Plus, Amy and I have a strong tradition of tomfoolery so let’s see if we don’t have some good fun."
As someone who loves The Great British Baking Show (come on, this is just like it), Parks and Rec, Poehler, and Offerman, I can't wait to watch this. Also, I have to point out that this would totally be a series Ron Swanson would adore — or possibly even try out for. That man loved woodworking, making things with his hands, and thought others were fools for buying things. I'm sure he'd have a few judgmental comments and may even pretend that he had no interest in watching, but you know it'd be his secret guilty pleasure (just like riddles).
All ages are encouraged to apply, and if you'd like to give a try, head on over to handmadeprojectcasting.com. Who else is ready to see Offerman and Poehler back together on TV? Me too, me too.
