Smithsonian Networks(TM) Pacts With Off the Fence for International Distribution

Smithsonian Networks(TM) Pacts With Off the Fence for International Distribution

WASHINGTON, March 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Smithsonian Networks has launched an international distribution arrangement with leading indie producer and distributor Off the Fence to represent their catalogue of High Definition programming in all international territories excluding North America.

Off the Fence will also be collaborating with the Smithsonian Networks on packaging co-productions for future Smithsonian Networks projects.

The deal covers 50 titles including "Stories from the Vaults", "Sound Revolution: The Electric Guitar", "Ghost Cat: Saving the Clouded Leopard" and "Hunt for the Double Eagle". The catalogue will be presented by Off the Fence at MIP in Cannes in April.

The Smithsonian Channel(TM) is distributed in the United States by satellite, cable and telecom companies. Its award winning programming features innovative and groundbreaking non-fiction programs in categories including: history, pop culture, art, natural history, children's programming, science, aviation and space exploration.

In commenting on the deal, Ellen Windemuth, Managing Director and founder of Off the Fence says: "Smithsonian Networks has launched one of the most exciting new HD channels and has built a reputation for outstanding visual storytelling. They have an excellent reputation for high quality content and commitment to the arts, science, history and culture genres. With our vast experience in distribution, we look forward to furthering their success and building their value in the international market".

"We have chosen a distributor with a stellar track record in the global marketplace. We are delighted that Off the Fence is going to represent our fast growing catalogue. We have already forged strong relationships with many of the best-known international co-producers, and believe that our programming will appeal to broadcasters worldwide," said Tom Hayden, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Smithsonian Networks.

ABOUT SMITHSONIAN NETWORKS:

Smithsonian Networks (SN) is a joint venture between Showtime Networks Inc. and the Smithsonian Institution. It was formed to create new channels to showcase scientific, cultural and historical programming based largely upon the assets of the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum complex. Smithsonian Channel features original documentaries, short-subject explorations and innovative and groundbreaking programs highlighting America's historical, cultural and scientific heritage. Visit Smithsonian Networks on the internet at www.smithsonianchannel.com

Off the Fence:

Established in 1994, Off the Fence is an independent production and distribution company specialising in non-fiction programming for the international marketplace.

Off the Fence creates and markets programming with a focus on high quality, integrity and innovation. The OTF catalogue contains over 1200 hours of natural history, science, health, adventure, history and social documentaries.

In addition to this, they develop, finance, produce and co-produce international non-fiction programmes, resulting in over 200 hours of produced and co-produced programmes in the past four years. As well as developing films in house, OTF work hands-on with established production companies and talented newcomers to create internationally marketable specials and series.

March 2005 saw the launch of OTF's UK production outfit based in Bristol, home to many of the world's best production talent. Production offices were also recently opened in Cape Town and Singapore, as an increasing part of the company's co-production output is created by production companies and independent filmmakers in these regions.

The company co-produces with broadcasters such as Animal Planet, National Geographic, BBC, Discovery, Voom, NHK, France 5, France 3, Arte, Canal Plus, BR, ZDF and NDR.

Press contacts:
Smithsonian Networks
Stuart Zakim
Stuart.zakim@showtime.net

212-708-1590

Franklin Rae Communications

+44 (0) 20 7317 5400

Teresa Hunt teresa@franklinrae.com
Richard Ware richard@franklinrae.com
Belinda Thomas belinda@franklinrae.com

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Smithsonian Networks

CONTACT: Stuart Zakim of Smithsonian Networks, +1-212-708-1590,
Stuart.zakim@showtime.net; or Teresa Hunt, teresa@franklinrae.com, or Richard
Ware, richard@franklinrae.com, or Belinda Thomas, belinda@franklinrae.com, all
of Franklin Rae Communications, +44(0)20-7317-5400

Web site:

http://www.smithsonianchannel.com/

-------
Profile: intent