With the “Price is Right Live!” event at Stephens Auditorium less than a week away, we thought we’d update everyone with what we know. We received updates about the event shortly after our initial articles were posted, but decided to hold off and publish them later in a follow-up story.

The host for the event will be Emmy Award-winning TV personality, author and emcee Todd Newton, well known for his work on E! Entertainment Television and for hosting numerous game shows. We were able to get in touch with Mr. Newton and learn more about his career and experience with the show, as well as some interesting previews into next week’s event.

How exactly did you get involved with hosting this show, and how long have you been doing this specific one?  

When the show began in 2012, I was hosting a show called “Whammy!” on GSN, which was produced by the same company as Price. I received a phone call asking if I’d be interested in hosting a live stage version of the show for a few nights in Reno, NV. As a longtime fan of the show and of Bob Barker, I jumped at the opportunity. The game show gods must be smiling upon us because those few nights have turned into over twelve years and the show is bigger and better than ever. 

I know you’ve won awards for hosting and you’ve been doing it awhile; but how have game shows changed since your start on “Hollywood Showdown?”

Like everything else there has certainly been an evolution. Sets are bigger and brighter. Prize amounts have grown to the point that $100,000 seems like pocket change-even though it’s obviously a life changing sum. But the classics are still the classics. Price, Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune are still staples in our society. 

What has been your favorite moment in the entertainment industry throughout your career?

I think it’d be impossible to choose one moment that stands out. I tried to come up with a standout event when I was writing my book, “Life in the Bonus Round” and just couldn’t do it. This is the greatest job in the world. No two audiences are the same so no two shows are the same. I try to play the games through the eyes of the contestant so seeing them really enjoying themselves is what keeps me coming back for more and more. There aren’t too many people who get to earn a living doing what they’ve always wanted to do so I’m a lucky guy. Bob Barker once told me to always count my blessings because there are people who actually have to get up and go to work. What we do is too much fun to be called work. 

In terms of the TV show, do you have a preference toward Bob Barker or Drew Carey? I don’t want to get you in trouble with anyone, so if you can’t answer that; do you see yourself hosting in the future or is there some young talent that you think would be great after Drew Carey retires?

I’ve never met Drew but have always heard nice things. Bob, on the other hand, took the time over the course of many years to teach me everything I know about hosting so I’ll always bow in respect and gratitude to the great one. I don’t think anyone could ever fill his shows. To answer your second question, I don’t pretend to have a crystal ball but I would be honored to step into that role should the opportunity ever arise. 

Now on to the event itself; what games should viewers expect to see during the event, based off of recent stops on the tour?

Game show audiences are the best audiences in show business. As a guy who was raised in Missouri, I know how much energy crowds in this part of the country can bring…and we’re ready for it!

Our set pieces are built by the same team that builds them for the TV show. The music and lighting is the same. Authenticity is important to us. Not sure which games will have in the lineup. With over 85 pricing games to choose from we like to mix it up, but if you’re a Plinko fan you won’t leave disappointed. 

Expect to be among a couple thousand fellow game show lovers, myself included. 

How long will the show last, and are you able to divulge information about possible prizes?

Our show generally runs about 90 minutes-same as any other night out at the theater. Regarding prizes, they change every night but folks can expect trips, appliances, cash and, of course, a new car!

Do you have any tips or strategies that you think might help contestants win that you have seen or learned about during your time as a host?

Well, all of our contestants are chosen completely at random minutes before the curtain goes up. I would just tell people to savor the moment. If you get called up make the most of it. Take it all in and I’ll be right there to walk you through it. Have fun. It’s all about the moment.