I don't know if this is a hard fact, but I remember hearing, at the time the show was in production, that the names Don and Herb were selected as an homage to Don Herbert. Don Herbert, now in his late '80's (2005) played "Mr. Wizard", the greatest of all children's science programs hosts.
Mr. Wizard was explaining science long before "Bill Nye, the science guy" or "Beekman" ever came along.
The "Watch Mr. Wizard" show format was somewhat similar to Beekman's World. Take a science concept and explain in simple, but yet interesting terms that appeal to both kids and adults. Mr. Wizard did his demonstrations in what might be described as a "home kitchen laboratory" with simple props made from items you would find around the house (except for some of the weird chemicals.) The shows were shot with professional, child actors (because they wanted kids used to performing so as not to just stare blankly at the camera) but very little rehearsal, usually just a production meeting describing what to expect and a run-through, so that the expressions of the actors would be fresh and natural.
Several of the child actors went on to successful careers in television.
Don Herbert is alive and well today and still producing science oriented content for young people though his production company, "Mr Wizard Studios"
Mr. Wizard was explaining science long before "Bill Nye, the science guy" or "Beekman" ever came along.
The "Watch Mr. Wizard" show format was somewhat similar to Beekman's World. Take a science concept and explain in simple, but yet interesting terms that appeal to both kids and adults. Mr. Wizard did his demonstrations in what might be described as a "home kitchen laboratory" with simple props made from items you would find around the house (except for some of the weird chemicals.) The shows were shot with professional, child actors (because they wanted kids used to performing so as not to just stare blankly at the camera) but very little rehearsal, usually just a production meeting describing what to expect and a run-through, so that the expressions of the actors would be fresh and natural.
Several of the child actors went on to successful careers in television.
Don Herbert is alive and well today and still producing science oriented content for young people though his production company, "Mr Wizard Studios"