Tazbah Chavez has been tapped to direct NBC’s upcoming single-cam comedy pilot set at a Native American community center, as reported exclusively by Variety.
The ensemble cast for the pilot includes Jana Schmieding, Bobby Wilson, Wes Studi, Rachel Dratch, Frankie Quiñones, Eddie Spears, Brian Bahe, and Sienna Tso. The pilot was greenlit by NBC in March, along with another comedy pilot titled “Stumble.”
The official logline for the project describes it as “An ensemble comedy set at a Native community center in Oakland, Calif. The employees hustle to keep the lights on while lifting up those in need.”
The pilot is written by Sierra Teller Ornelas, Jackie Keliiaa, and Wilson, all of whom are also serving as executive producers. Teller Ornelas will be the showrunner, with Morgan Sackett also on board as an executive producer. The pilot is produced by Universal Television.
Chavez’s involvement in directing the pilot reunites her with several members of the cast and creative team from her previous work on shows like “Rutherford Falls” and “Reservation Dogs.” She has written and directed multiple episodes of both shows and has also worked on projects like “Resident Alien,” “Accused,” and “Sex Lives of College Girls.” Chavez’s upcoming projects include “IT: Welcome to Derry” and “The Paper.”
She is represented by 3 Arts, WME, and Hansen Jacobson.
Currently, NBC’s comedy lineup is limited, with only the multi-cam show “Happy’s Place” and the mockumentary “St. Denis Medical” on air. Recent cancellations include “Night Court” and “Lopez vs. Lopez” at the network.
This new comedy pilot set at a Native American community center brings a fresh perspective to NBC’s comedy offerings and is sure to bring laughter and heartwarming moments to viewers. Stay tuned for updates on the show’s development and premiere date.