TVNZ Branching Out with Drama Launch Online

5 December, 2006

TVNZ Branching Out with Drama Launch Online

TVNZ is presenting 'something completely different' next week by launching its new primetime Kiwi drama online, rather than on television - a first in New Zealand.

The first episode of Karaoke High will be streamed on tvnz.co.nz from Monday, December 11.

It's a sneak preview of the new family show, which goes to air on TV2 a week later. It will run every weekday night on TV2 at 7pm, from December 18 replacing Shortland Street over the holiday period.

Karaoke High is a fifteen part series about talented students at a fiercely competitive performing arts school – nicknamed Karaoke High by those who fail to get in.

Funded through New Zealand On Air, it features a number of young kiwi actors, some spectacular dancing, and original New Zealand music by Tom McLeod, created just for the programme.

TVNZ chief executive Rick Ellis says the online launch is a taste of things to come.

"TVNZ is taking the lead here. We're no longer about television alone – we're about New Zealand's best visual content, wherever and whenever New Zealanders want to see it", Mr Ellis says.

"While our two channels are our core business, and will remain so, we are entering a new age that transcends television and it's appropriate that TVNZ as the public broadcaster should be trailblazing new ways to bring exciting stuff to viewers, on every screen."

For more log on to tvnz.co.nz, keyword: Karaoke High

ENDS

© Scoop Media