Ovation To Launch Two New Series

Arts network Ovation will launch four new and returning series in 2015 as it celebrates increases in distribution and ratings in 2014.

The network will look to strike a chord with music fans with the March 18 premiere of new series On the Record With Mick Rock, which features the legendary rock music photographer as he visits culture capitals with music artists like Josh Groban and Kings Of Leon, said network officials.

A second new series, American Canvas, will premiere Feb. 25 and will explore art and cultural gems hidden in such cities as San Francisco, Austin and Miami with personality David Holmes (pictured).

The two new series will join returning series The Art Of and The Artful Detective on Ovation’s lineup.

The programming announcements come as the network hits the 52 million subscriber mark, a 23% increase compared to the same period in 2013. In addition, the network’s primetime household ratings are up 32% compared to 2013’s numbers, according to network officials.

“It’s very encouraging that even in the challenging and ever-changing media environment we’re in now, an independent network like Ovation can thrive,” said Scott Woodward, senior vice president of  Programming and Production for Ovation. “Being the only network dedicated to the arts differentiates Ovation as a unique offering on the cable line up, and our original programming is helping us further define our identity and broaden our appeal with viewers.”

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.