New streaming service transfers the stage to the screen
Image: AFP/Timothy Clary via AFP Relaxnews
A digital network devoted to theater, and theater-related content, will launch this summer.
“This is basically an untapped media space: theater as a lifestyle brand,” said the network’s chairman, CEO and co-founder Rich Affannato. “Much like the time it takes to produce a full-scale Broadway show, we’ve been quietly at work on Stage for two years, building our team of talent, developing our platform and acquiring existing content, as well as producing new, exclusive programming,”
Said programming will include “Studio Sessions” (a show is shot live with an audience at New York City’s noted recording studio The Power Station; each episode celebrates a particular composer’s history and body of work through acoustic performances) and “CrossOvers” (a half-hour talk show featuring artists who have shifted from theater to other media.
Initially, Stage will be available only in the United States, although an international rollout is planned in 2019. A free version (offering limited content) is set for August, before a paying subscription scheme debuts online in the fall (no price is specified currently).
The only other rival player in the stage-to-streaming market is BroadwayHD, Variety noted, with a library made up of recordings of live theater events and shows from Broadway, Off Broadway and around the country. JB
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