Bluenoser Battles

All throughout Halifax Regional Municipality this summer, swords clashed, paintballs flew, and contestants sweated for bragging rights and cold hard cash. The catch: the friends-turned-foes had no idea what challenges they would face until they arrived on the day. A new locally produced and made television show, Bluenoser Battles, was behind all the hijinx.
“We wanted to showcase the people and places around our beautiful city, and get a few laughs as we followed the contestants’ journey,” says Ryan Schimmel, the director and one of the producers.
“What’s great about Bluenoser Battles is that it’s a show for the entire family!” says host Anthony Jackson.
An avid game show fan, Jackson describes hosting Bluenoser Battles as a dream come true. It’s common for Jackson to take jabs at the contestants during their challenges in this lighthearted show, but it’s all in good fun.
“One of the most rewarding experiences of hosting Bluenoser Battles has been the opportunity to meet my fellow Nova Scotians, contestants, challenge experts and sponsors, who are full of knowledge, laughter and excitement!” Jackson points out.
The show's inaugural season offers five episodes, each featuring different challenges and competitors. Sisters Jayde and Autumn MacDougall battle it out in the Highland Games. Local rap duo Atay and Jax shoot it out at Mersey Road Paintball. The fun and wacky couple of Santina Lopie and Jeff Burke play in the sand and get dirty during a sandcastle competition. “Frienamies” turned best buds Nic Young and Meagan Walsh make a splash as maritime search and rescue specialists. The ultra competitive couple of Taylor and Greg Milne engage in a scavenger hunt in downtown Dartmouth.
“What excites me about Bluenoser Battles is that our contestants, local Nova Scotians, are everyday people that our viewers can relate to,” says Jackson.
This small independent project received plenty of aid from the community. With the help of presenting sponsor Fundy Textile & Design Ltd. and local small businesses, the show puts up ample production value despite its low budget.
“This was a passion project for all involved, from reduced rates to calling in as many favours as possible. We were grateful for the opportunity,” Schimmel says. “I’d love to do a second season; there are still tons of possibilities to explore.”
Bluenoser Battles will launch by mid November and air on Bell Fibe TV1.
“The anticipation is up there. I’m super excited for the show to air,” says Schimmel, adding that the recently launched Bluenoser Battles trailer has already gained a following.
It seems the general public shares their excitement.