I stumbled across an online article about a long-time friend of mine that I want to share. I can't believe David and I met 20 years ago (already!) when we were both meagre painters at the Knott's Berry Farm scene shop. We both left Knott's but he has recently returned and now is a designer for Halloween Haunt mazes and other event scenery at the park. (I'm kinda jealous actually!) I'm really glad for David that he's been able to do what he loves for a living, and that he's using his influence to bring cultural themes to the annual Halloween Haunt event. I've always considered David a dear friend and admire that he has a lot of tenacity and nerve to go for what he wants, but in a very sophisticated way.
Knott's Berry Farm and I go way back. My father, my mother and I have all worked there at one time. When I was about 5 years old, I went to Haunt for the first time because my Dad (a trumpet player) was playing in the Wolfman Jack band (remember him??). I remember hanging out with Wolfman and the band backstage, and Dad and I walking through the haunted houses between shows.
When I was 20, and freelancing as a set painter in the entertainment industry, I got a job at Knott's as a painter for the Halloween Haunt event. My mother came in to work with us later that season. An excellent artist, she did the more complicated techniques than I was able to do at the time. She stayed on at Knott's to continue with other events, while I moved on the next year to work on Universal Studio's first year of Halloween Horror Nights.
Did I mention that Halloween is my favorite holiday and I love haunted houses? Funny that I ran across this article because lately I've been getting the itch to put a paint brush back in my hand.
Anyway, this isn't really about me, it's about David. If you live in the Southern California area and have never been to Knott's Halloween Haunt, you're really missing a treat. If you happen to be in the area during the month leading up to Halloween, be sure to get tickets. Get them early - they sell out fast. Congratulations, David, on the excellent work.
The linked article is a really well-done article and interview, including lots of photos, and gives a wonderful behind the scenes look at the Knott's Halloween Haunt event. Enjoy.
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