From Bayou City Magazine‘s December 2014/January 2015 Issue:

It’s all about the joy of a shared experience, says Ernie Manouse, host of “Manor of Speaking,” of HoustonPBS’s Emmy Award-winning “Downton Abbey” after-show. Launched in 2013, the show brings panelists and a studio audience together to watch and discuss each episode.

Since almost half of those watching “Downton” stay around, you may already know those joining Manouse on the couch. Manouse’s regular guests St. John Flynn and Helen Mann are joined by Mister Rodgers, the butler played by actor Luke Wrobel, as well as two other superfan panelists. The rotating panelists are selected for their expertise in the theme of the upcoming show, Manouse says, “but they’re not there to be interviewed.” They’re fans of the show who add something of their knowledge when the conversation heads that direction.

For the upcoming season, the show will be pre-recorded Tuesday nights. You can join the studio audience by signing up on the website (and swearing not to share spoilers). The studio audience watches the upcoming Sunday’s episode, submits questions and then moves to the “Manor” stage for the fast-paced, “live-to-tape” show, which features four primary segments.

In “History 101,” Manouse explains an element of the show for the American audience, such as how the British Prime Ministry works. The “Grantham Gazette” is a tongue-in-cheek recap of the episode, although Manouse says he won’t poke too much fun. “People are very connected to the story lines,” he says.

In “Across the Pond,” Manouse chats with someone involved with “Downton Abbey,” such as executive producer Gareth Neame. There’s also a “Behind the Scenes” piece and, new this season, a sneak preview of the next episode. Throughout, the “free-flowing conversation,” questions from the audience and silver-platter-delivered “tweets, my lord” help Manouse maintain the somewhat frantic pace he prefers for the show. “I want people to say, ‘It’s over already?’” Manouse explains.

Both shows return Jan. 4, with the first “Manor” taping Dec. 16. Want to be in the audience? Get your costume ready and reserve free seats online at houstonpublicmedia.org/manor-of-speaking. Also coming is Downton Day, Dec. 6, where you can see a preview of the first “Downton” episode at three locations across the city. Can’t be there in person? Send comments and questions during the show via Twitter @manorspeak.

Article available online here.