If you've ever wanted to see a TV show in person, you should know that it's easier than you think.  Visit show websites to keep an eye on when tickets are available--and then place your order! Unless you have a large group, most shows limit your ticket requests to four at a time and generally, you have to be 18 or older.

I thought it would be fascinating to go see MARTHA, Martha Stewart's syndicated talk and home show.  Would Martha be a diva, ordering her cowering staff around like Meryl Streep in the Devil Wears Prada?  Or would she be nice and sweet and totally different from her publicized personality?

Actually, seeing the show in person was a very pleasant experience. Like you might expect, the show taping was well organized with some thoughtful touches I haven't found at other TV show tapings that I've attended--like offering bottled water to the audience.

I requested tickets several times before I actually received them in April for a taping three weeks later.  I got an email from the show giving me all the details as to what to wear, directions to the Chelsea Television Studio (in a safe neighborhood) and information about the taping.

Because MARTHA airs live on most days, the show starts promptly at 10 a.m. so you have to arrive at the studio by 8:30 a.m. Most TV audience veterans know that the earlier you arrive, the better your seats.  My friend and I checked in at 7:45 so the ticket-takers suggested we go down the street to a nearby coffee shop to wait until they opended the doors.

As you might expect, the operation was very well organized.  Sometimes she also has gifts for her audience, although I've noticed that she doesn't give away as many things as she used to in her first year. This September, however, she DID give away a beautiful home so I guess that's better than a saute pan or tablecloth! When we were there, the audience entertainer--Joey--gave away copies of her magazines, dog food bowls (from a previous show taping) and scrapbooking supplies (I was fortunate enough to get those!).

After the show, Martha herself came out to thank the audience--a very nice touch I've never seen before at any taping.  She also allowed the audience to take photos aftere the taping, which I've never seen before.

So, if you're in New York, go and smile pretty for the camera!