A few years back many people had no idea what a “Dojang” was (the equivalent of the Japanese “Dojo”, or martial arts school). For ease of speech and recognition I created “Dojo Kids.”
It was a simple, straightforward idea about Junior High/Middle School kids dealing with every-day “kid” things – with a twist. Their protector would be the new kid in town. A 12 year old girl who just happened to be a Black Belt.
So I hired an Emmy® winning Director, a school principle (played by “WKRP in Cincinnati’s Gordon Jump”) and a very talented, mostly unknown cast. The pilot and the first few shows were shot in Magna, Utah.
Since I have been asked a bit about the show, I thought I would share a few pieces of history.
You will find here pages from the original press kit providing you with a look at the Dojo Kid’s “Bible.” I understand there is some real interest in viewing and purchasing the originals shows… and quite possibly producing the show anew.
Enjoy…
Brandon Paris (Bradley Dutson – Kids Clubhouse, Pizza Hut, Water Works) is looking forward to the new school year, if day dreaming doesn’t get in the way. Brandon ‘s older, smarter and almost an adult… “After all, I am an eight grader.”
Brandon’s best friend, Bobby Neil, (Casey Rion – Kidsongs Series, Higher Learning) is looking forward to law school, public office and the eventuality of the Presidency of the United States. This can only happen if he can get Franki (Susannah Miller) to teach him enough about basketball to beat the school jock.
Twink (Scott Fetzer ) is ready to have a package of twinkies. But he also needs another quarter. “Why is it lenders have better memories than borrowers?”
This do-everything-together team of friends is about to find out what growing up means. Brandon has his eye on the new girl in school. So does Bubba (Willie L. Green aka “Willie G”). This is a violation of the #1 Rule of Mount Kimball Junior High; “No person living or dead shall get to know the cutest, newest girl in school unless Bubba says he don’t want her.”
For awhile it looks as if Mr. Burke (Gordon Jump – WKRP in Cincinatti) can hold together anything the students dish out, due to those “dark days in Korea” he spent with the United States Anny. Obviously though, the past and the future have little in common.
What nobody counted on is the new girl, Holly Johnson (Katie Lorene Adams – Speed, Casper, Boy Meets World). She’s pretty, athletic, studious and just happens to be a Black Belt in Karate.
This Family Adventure…
doesn’t use gimmicks of time-space transport, inter-dimensional aliens, or hardcore bone crushing martial arts.
Emmy award winning Director, Susan Rorhor (Never Say Goodbye, Emancipation of Lizzie Stern, For Jennie with Love, Sweet Valley High) reveals a side of adolescence to the viewing audience which may have been long forgotten… real kids with real families, problems and success stories.
Martial Arts is also shown in its true light. Something that builds confidence, discipline and character… while developing positive life long friendships… even with your parents.
Karate Kid meets Wonder Years?
No, something better…
the Dojo Kids.
