TORONTO – CBC has re-loaded and re-launched its two digital channels, and given them names without capital letters.
They are “bold”, which replaces CBC Country Canada and becomes the home for performing arts, drama, and sports, and “documentary”, formerly The Documentary Channel, which will offer “the most provocative and entertaining documentaries from Canada and around the world”, the CBC says.
“We are thrilled to launch bold and documentary,” said Richard Stursberg, executive vice-president, CBC English Services, in a statement. “As the names suggest, these channels will showcase the best of new programming that will excite, challenge and provoke.”
“Bold” boasts 80 per cent Canadian content while showcasing performing arts from around the world, including The Metropolitan Opera Series in high definition.
Other “bold” offerings include Jian Ghomeshi’s arts and culture program “Q”, borrowed from radio, the Cirque du Soleil’s new show Kooza, and the original program In Session, which will present behind-the-scenes interviews and recordings with emerging Canadian artists.
“Bold” will also offer uncut drama and comedy, including the premiere of The Tudors – uncut and commercial-free, and the British serial Funland, described as dark, seedy, sinister, cunning, and hilarious.
Weekends on “bold” feature live sports, including extra coverage of the Beijing Olympic Games this summer, soccer, and equestrian events.
“Documentary” is officially re-launched tonight, with the award-winning documentary The Devil Came On Horseback, about Darfur, Sudan.
Other upcoming docs include Sharia In Canada, Rock On! Seven Ages of Rock, the series Planet Earth on Monday nights, and the nine-part series, Wonderful World of Albert Kahn.
Bold and documentary are available for free preview from March 29 to April 29 for those who are digital cable subscribers.
www.boldtv.ca
www.documentarychannel.ca
