The Penhold Regional Multiplex recently played host to an NHL star and a commercial shoot.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins just finished his first year in the pros with the Edmonton Oilers. He was named the team's rookie of the month in October 2011 and the NHL rookie of the month in November. He's a former Red Deer Rebel and has also suited up for the Vancouver Giants before being drafted to the NHL.
Multiplex facility manager Derek Crichton said the commercial shoot took place in mid-April in an eight-hour period that saw the Penhold ice being used as the set. The commercial was for SK8 Fuel, which is a product that can be applied to skate blades after sharpening.
“It was pretty boring and at the same time it was really cool to have someone of that stature here,” Crichton said of the shoot. Staff were able to watch the proceedings and helped with a few things like lights.
Nugent-Hopkins was good about taking photos with the staff afterwards, Crichton said.
As for why the multiplex was picked, Crichton said he really doesn't “entirely know” but he suspects it has to do with a positive relationship with a Red Deer Rebels trainer. The Rebels are heading back to the multiplex this week for their prospects camp. This will be the third time they've used the multiplex for the camp.
Once the request to use the facility was made, Crichton jumped on the chance.
“I said this is a no-brainer,” he said. He said part of his job is helping raise the profile of the Penhold Regional Multiplex and what it has to offer.
Rather than leak the information, Crichton kept the budding NHL star's visit quiet as to help encourage future business. He said Nugent-Hopkins' agent came and “they even brought a little bit of muscle with them.”
The commercial should start airing in the next month on channels like TSN, Crichton said.
