Springfield chefs battled it out and a victor was named. Audiences will be able to watch the drama unfold on the student-produced series “Show-Me Chefs” in the fall semester on partnering television network KOZL-TV and on the web. The show airs Sept. 26.

Going behind the scenes

The media, journalism and film department-produced series will feature seven episodes of area chefs going head-to-head in cooking challenges judged by local culinary experts and personalities.

Executive producer and associate professor Dr. Deborah L. Larson said the series is part of a capstone course in advanced television production that includes students from across the College of Arts and Letters, from broadcast journalism and public relations to digital film and media production.

Students get hands-on experience

Student co-producer Daan Jansen said the course has provided him with real-world, resume-building opportunity: “It doesn’t feel like school; it feels like I have a job. It’s been the biggest learning experience for me.”

Jansen is a South African native who is getting a graduate degree in producing and screenwriting.

Community shows its support

The show has also pushed students out into community, like at the Farmer’s Market of the Ozarks, to solicit support.

Co-producer Alexandra Perez-Diaz, originally from Spain, said she was surprised at their willingness to participate.

“In my country nobody’s going to give you anything for free, even if you give back with publicity. For me, it was like, ‘Who am I to call them and ask for free food?’ But they were all willing.”

In addition to the farmer’s market, 319 Event Center, KOLR-10, Care to Learn and Mama Jean’s Natural Market are all show sponsors.