Amazon Prime Video’s reboot of A League of Their Own captured audiences with its fresh perspective and compelling characters. While the story is rooted in the 1940s All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), the series wasn’t filmed in the real-life Rockford, Illinois. The primary filming locations were centered around Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas, with some strategic shots taken further afield to complete the authentic feel.
The Keystone State Steals the Show: Primary Filming Locations in Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh’s diverse architecture and industrial history made it an ideal canvas to recreate the 1940s Midwest. The production team meticulously scouted locations that could convincingly stand in for Rockford, Illinois, and other key settings in the series.
PNC Park: Home Plate Authenticity
Perhaps the most recognizable location is PNC Park, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates. It served as the filming location for the AAGPBL tryouts, lending an air of professional authenticity to the scenes. The modern stadium was carefully dressed to remove any anachronistic elements and evoke the atmosphere of a 1940s baseball park. The stadium’s iconic Roberto Clemente Bridge also makes appearances in establishing shots.
Ambridge and McKees Rocks: Small-Town Charm
The towns of Ambridge and McKees Rocks, located just outside of Pittsburgh, provided the backdrop for many of the small-town scenes. Their historic architecture and well-preserved streetscapes perfectly captured the look and feel of the era. Ambridge, in particular, features prominently in scenes depicting Rockford’s downtown area. You’ll notice period-appropriate storefronts and signage adding to the immersive experience.
Old Economy Village: A Living History Museum
Located in Ambridge, Old Economy Village is a preserved communal society from the 19th century. This historical site proved invaluable for creating authentic interior and exterior shots of homes, businesses, and other key locations within the series. Its well-maintained buildings and grounds provided a ready-made backdrop that required minimal set dressing.
Various Pittsburgh Neighborhoods: A Diverse Landscape
Beyond these key locations, various neighborhoods throughout Pittsburgh contributed to the series’ visual tapestry. These include locations around downtown Pittsburgh and specific streets that were temporarily transformed into 1940s thoroughfares. The production team worked diligently to cover modern elements and ensure a seamless transition to the past.
Beyond Pennsylvania: Expanding the Horizon
While Pennsylvania served as the primary filming location, the production team also ventured beyond state lines to capture specific scenes and landscapes.
Southern Charm: Savannah, Georgia
For scenes requiring a distinctly Southern atmosphere, the production shifted to Savannah, Georgia. The city’s historic architecture, lush greenery, and warm climate provided the perfect setting for moments that needed to convey a sense of Southern hospitality and a contrast to the Midwest.
A League of Their Own Series: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section aims to answer common questions about the filming locations of A League of Their Own and provide additional insights into the production process.
FAQ 1: Was the original A League of Their Own movie filmed in the same locations as the series?
No, the 1992 film A League of Their Own was primarily filmed in Evansville, Indiana, and Huntingburg, Indiana, among other locations. While both the movie and the series explore the same historical context, they utilized different filming locations.
FAQ 2: How did the production team make modern locations look like the 1940s?
The production design team employed several techniques to transform modern locations into convincing recreations of the 1940s. These included:
- Strategic set dressing: Covering modern signs and architectural details with period-appropriate alternatives.
- CGI enhancements: Removing or altering elements that couldn’t be physically changed.
- Careful camera angles: Avoiding shots that would reveal modern elements.
- Vintage props: Utilizing authentic props from the era to enhance the realism.
FAQ 3: Did the actors actually play baseball at PNC Park?
Yes, the actors did film baseball scenes at PNC Park. The series emphasized authenticity in its portrayal of the AAGPBL, and the actors underwent extensive baseball training to ensure their performance was believable. The producers took care to select experienced actors with significant experience playing baseball in order to ensure the authenticity of the baseball scenes.
FAQ 4: Was the series actually filmed in Rockford, Illinois?
No, despite the story being centered in Rockford, Illinois, the series was not filmed there. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, stood in as the primary location due to its suitable architecture and available resources.
FAQ 5: How long did it take to film the series?
Filming for the first season of A League of Their Own took place over several months, beginning in the summer of 2021 and continuing into 2022. This extended filming period allowed the production team to capture the necessary footage and ensure the quality of the series.
FAQ 6: What challenges did the production team face when filming in historic locations?
Filming in historic locations presented several challenges, including:
- Preservation concerns: Protecting the integrity of historic buildings and sites.
- Limited access: Navigating restrictions on filming in certain areas.
- Weather conditions: Ensuring that weather conditions didn’t damage historic structures.
- Maintaining historical accuracy: Ensuring that the filming process didn’t compromise the authenticity of the locations.
FAQ 7: Are there tours available of the filming locations?
While there aren’t specific tours dedicated solely to A League of Their Own, visitors can explore many of the filming locations on their own. PNC Park offers stadium tours, and Old Economy Village is a popular tourist destination. It’s advisable to check with local tourism boards for updated information and guided tour options.
FAQ 8: Why was Pittsburgh chosen as the primary filming location?
Pittsburgh offered a combination of factors that made it an ideal choice for filming A League of Their Own, including:
- Diverse architecture: Pittsburgh’s architectural styles mirrored those found in Midwestern towns of the 1940s.
- Film-friendly environment: The city has a well-established film industry and infrastructure.
- Economic incentives: Pennsylvania offers tax credits and other incentives to attract film productions.
FAQ 9: Did any local Pittsburgh residents participate in the filming?
Yes, many Pittsburgh residents were involved in the production of A League of Their Own, both as crew members and as extras. This provided a significant economic boost to the local community.
FAQ 10: What resources can I use to find specific filming locations from the series?
Several online resources can help you pinpoint specific filming locations, including:
- Movie-Maps.com: This website often provides lists and maps of filming locations for various movies and TV shows.
- Pittsburgh Film Office Website: This website provides details of filming locations in Pittsburgh, as well as information on filming permits and the wider film industry.
- Local tourism websites: Websites for Pittsburgh, Ambridge, and McKees Rocks may provide information about specific landmarks and their use in the series.
FAQ 11: What was the significance of filming in Savannah, Georgia?
Filming in Savannah allowed the production team to capture the distinctive atmosphere and landscapes of the American South, adding depth and nuance to the series. It provided a stark contrast to the Midwestern setting, highlighting the cultural differences of the time period. The location was key for depicting the journey and backstory of some characters.
FAQ 12: How did the filming locations contribute to the overall tone and feel of the series?
The carefully chosen filming locations played a vital role in creating the immersive and authentic atmosphere of A League of Their Own. By meticulously recreating the look and feel of the 1940s Midwest and South, the production team transported viewers back in time and allowed them to fully engage with the story and its characters. The realistic backdrop enhances the audience’s connection with the characters and the world they inhabit.