The CBC’s newest flagship show Village on a Diet, a 10 hour series which challenges a Canadian town to lose weight, is considering Drumheller as a possible focus of its entire second season.
In order to make the pitch for Drumheller to CBC, producer Laurie Case says residents must express their interest in partaking.
“We’re looking for a community that has great character, beauty and spirit; one which can be an example to the rest of the country by showing that it’s possible for a community to band together to change their lives,” said Case of Force Four Entertainment.
“Drumheller is doing well with the amount of support I’ve received, I think it could make it into the shortlist,” said Case.
“It would be wonderful for Drumheller to get that kind of exposure in a program that runs for an entire season,” said Paul Salvatore, Director of Community Services. “We’re very supportive of this opportunity.”
This is not just a weight-loss program, says Case. Through three months of filming, they provide the town with a support team of six health experts – a doctor, psychologist, dietitian, two physical trainers, and a chef. The goal for the town is to lose a target amount of weight collectively, 2,000 lbs. This is accomplished through education, lifestyle changes, and physical activity, says Case.
“We’re looking for any interested participants or groups, as well as a ‘town crier’ to champion this,” says Case. “The town crier is someone who would be passionate about the project, and passionate about building community spirit and health.”
Those interested in taking part, voicing interest or support of filming in Drumheller, and those who want to, or know someone to lead the town can e-mail producer Laurie Case at laurie@forcefour.com.
The central health region of Alberta, where Drumheller lies, is above average for overweight or obesity, at 58.5 per cent. The Canadian average is 51.6 per cent.
American networks have been producing weigh-loss shows for years now, and finally Canadians will see that America is not alone in the fight against obesity.
Case says the approach of Village on a Diet is different than similar weight-loss shows.
“I think it’s a better concept to have experts come into your environment instead of going off to a fat camp,” said Case. “I wouldn’t call it a weight-loss show, even though that’s the final goal. I think it’s the longterm success of what’s happening to individuals and communities is the goal of this show.”
“Drumheller is a great looking town, the demographic is right, but really the thing that will work in Drumheller’s favour will be the support I receive.”