Sneak peek at Hollywood's biggest night ahead of the Oscars

The Oscars producers walk through the setup and explain what's new this year.

February 6, 2020, 8:16 AM

Producers for Hollywood's biggest night gave an exclusive sneak peek backstage to share the secrets of how the Oscars comes together.

Stephanie Allain and Lynette Howell Taylor showed ABC News' Chris Connelly around the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles ahead of the 92nd Academy Awards.

"I think ultimately there's just nothing like the Oscar," Taylor said. "And it's been around for so long."

PHOTO: Crew workers transport Oscar decorations in preparation for Sunday's 92nd Academy Awards, Feb. 5, 2020, in Hollywood, Calif.
Workers transport Oscar decorations in preparation for Sunday's 92nd Academy Awards, Feb. 5, 2020, in Hollywood, Calif.
Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP

Allain added that the legacy "means a lot -- so we're just happy to be part of that."

Both Allain and Taylor said there's nothing like watching the Oscar set take shape before the stars bring it to life.

"It was really thrilling," Taylor said. "It was actually one of the most thrilling parts. And we both got emotional."

"The first time we saw it up, there were tears," Allain said.

This year's production will include major musical performances from such Oscar nominees as Elton John, Oscar invitee Billie Eilish, who is fresh off her Grammy Award triumphs, and Janelle Monae.

Taylor said with those performances throughout the show, "it'll have a good pace."

Oscar statues are seen during preparations for the 92nd Annual Oscars, Feb. 5, 2020, in Hollywood, Calif.
Robyn Beck/AFP/Getty Images

"I think it will feel theatrical," she said. "More music moments than they've had in the show in recent years."

Without revealing too many details or specifics about the exciting musical numbers, Taylor said "I think what you'll see is a range."

"You've got Elton John and Cynthia Erivo. It's a very big span," Allain explained.

The ladies both said the decision to go hostless for the second year in a row should also help with the timing of everything.

"It moves the show faster. I think it [kept] the pace up last year," Taylor said.

"And it puts the spotlight on the films and the filmmakers. And it went great last year. So we thought we would build on that," Allain added.

Workers transport a decorative Oscar statue in preparation for Sunday's 92nd Academy Awards, Feb. 5, 2020, in Los Angeles.
Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP

As conversation grows about diversity, inclusion and representation on film sets and beyond, Allain said they have come up with ways to make sure everyone feels they have a place at the Hollywood table.

"I think that from the beginning we always wanted the show to feel diverse and inclusive. And I think our choices in terms of what we can make a difference in, in terms of presenters and musical numbers, that's where you'll feel a great sense -- of inclusion," she said.

Taylor and Allain both hailed the 64 women nominees this year, which is a record number.

"A huge record," Allain said. "And almost all of the Best Picture nominees were produced by women."

Check back to Goodmorningamerica.com for full coverage and again on Feb. 9 when the Oscars take place live from Hollywood!

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