‘Modern Family’ taping was added bonus to day at Disneyland

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"Modern Family" cast members during a break in filming at Disneyland on Feb. 29, 2012. Photo by Sherry Barkas

This week’s “Modern Family” is an episode that was shot in Disneyland on Feb. 29, when the park was open 24 hours for its Leap Day event.

I was among the throngs of park guests standing along the wrought iron fence in the Adventureland/New Orleans Square area, leaning in as far as possible to get pictures while they filmed along the walkway in front of the boats to  Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island.

The crowd grew especially excited whenever Sofia Vergara, who plays Gloria, and Rico Rodriguez, as Manny, came in view.

There wasn’t much interaction between the crowd and actors. In fact, the actors seemed to be oblivious to the large gathering of fans.

It was fun to watch, but I didn’t stand around for too long. I can handle watching the same scene being shot over and over only so long, and besides, all the attention to the filming made for shorter lines for the rides!

They moved throughout the park all day, shooting at various locations, including Main Street in the evening.

You’d think it would be a chaotic nuisance with all the crew, equipment and roping off of the areas where they were shooting. But it wasn’t. You barely knew they were there.

When they were on lunch break, I just happened to be walking by the Golden Horseshoe Saloon where one of the assistant cameramen was sitting amidst the props and equipment, eating chocolate chip mint ice cream.

He was extremely friendly when I interrupted his lunch to ask some questions about the episode and when it would air. He was also very forthcoming when asked where and when they would be shooting throughout the day.

He said working on the series was one of the most enjoyable experiences he’s had as a cameraman. While most people might say that because, hey, it’s their job after all, I could tell he was sincere.

Overall, the “Modern Family” cast and crew being in the park was like an added bonus to Disney’s Leap Day event. I’m looking forward to seeing the episode Wednesday night.