Sundance, Universal HD to Deliver New HD Programming Block

NEW YORK, July 10: NBC Universal’s Universal HD network will
launch a new weekly high-definition programming block on August 1 at 8 p.m.
that showcases original programming from the Sundance Channel, including the
celebrity interview series Iconoclasts.

Sponsored by Microsoft, the branded block will air
Wednesdays through December 26. The block will include the series Iconoclasts,
which pairs two leading creative innovators
from different fields including film, literature, architecture, food, music,
and business. Set outside of a studio at a location meaningful to one or both
of the subjects, each pair provides viewers with an inside glimpse into the
factors that made these iconoclasts who they are today and offers insight into
the real people behind the public personae. The series is produced by Sundance
Channel and Grey Goose Entertainment in association with Conde Nast Media
Group.

The block will also include the documentary series Big
Ideas for a Small Planet, which was
launched in April this year as part of the Sundance Channel’s “The Green” initiative.
Produced by Scout Productions, each episode revolves around a different green
theme as it spotlights a specific innovator or innovation that has the
potential to transform our everyday lives. The individuals profiled range from
scientists to fashion and product designers, entrepreneurs to first-time
inventors. The series also features a cast of recurring expert commentators,
including activists, scientists, writers, and environmental personalities. In
addition, the new block will also air the 12-part series Live From
Abbey Road, which features performances and
interviews with musicians filmed at London's Abbey Road Studios in recognition
of its 75th anniversary.

"Sundance Channel speaks to a very educated, tech savvy
audience," said Sundance Channel president and CEO Larry Aidem. "Our
viewers are early adopters of advanced technology, they are interested in HDTV
and this new branded block on Universal HD will now make our key original
franchises available on HDTV."

Added Jeff Gaspin, the president of NBC Universal Cable and
Digital Content: "Universal HD viewers are the perfect fit for Sundance
Channel programming. We are thrilled to be partnering with both Sundance and
Microsoft on what will be a great entertainment experience for viewers."