NGT EMBARKS ON MAJOR, MULTI-HOUR SERIES

Published: 2 February 2010

National Geographic Television (NGT) announces today that it is developing a major new, multi-hour television series that will re-examine the role of Greece in world history and, through a series of new discoveries, present an entirely new understanding of this incredible ancient superpower.

“The Greeks,” (working title) is a landmark six-hour documentary series produced by National Geographic Television in partnership with Greek broadcaster SKAI. The series will tell the 2000+ year story of ancient Greece, from the roots of the early Minoan civilization to the wars that tore apart Alexander the Great’s empire after his death. Each episode will be headlined by a ground-breaking new discovery in archaeology or forensic investigation that opens up a new perspective on the ancient Greeks.

Working with the world’s leading archaeologists, biological and engineering forensic scientists and other experts National Geographic will help uncover secrets long lost in time and weave these new findings into powerful stories that give a human face and emotional drama to the legends. Filming in HD will take place across Greece and beyond, to Egypt, the Caucasus and India, following the footsteps of early Greek colonists and the later armies of Alexander the Great.

The production team is led by producer/director Christopher Spencer. Noted for his keen visual style and powerful storytelling, Spencer has produced a wide range of dramas and documentaries for international broadcasters including National Geographic Channel, BBC, Channel 4 (UK), HBO and PBS. The Times praised his ‘Seven Wonders of the Industrial World,’ as “…a groundbreaking achievement….”

A range of partnerships are helping make the project possible. Through special arrangements with the Ministry of Culture of Greece, the National Hellenic Research Foundation and the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, National Geographic has been granted unprecedented – and in many cases, exclusive – access to Greek architectural and artistic treasures, and to the most exciting archaeological sites.

Maryanne Culpepper, NGT’s executive vice president, editorial and new business development comments: “In my role I get to explore many terrific projects around the world but I can honestly say this is one of the biggest and most exciting projects National Geographic has developed. Our partnership with SKAI and the support of the Greek Ministry of Culture have allowed us incredible access to Greece’s archaeological treasures. This, coupled with the involvement of leading scholars in ancient Greece and our own world-renowned explorers and scientists, has allowed us to create a veritable ‘dream team’, on course to deliver the most definitive series on Ancient Greece ever.”

Ioannis Alafouzos, chairman of Skai comments: “National Geographic has been a valued partner since we launched Skai so we are delighted to take our relationship to the next step by working together on this milestone project. Our expertise and local knowledge will combine with NGT’s high production values and story-telling skills to create a fascinating new take on Greek history and many of its most iconic subjects.

“The stories of ancient Greece have been enthralling people for many centuries and its legacy can be found today in many cultures around the world – from art and architecture to medicine and language. With a reputation for accuracy, impartiality and respect for its subjects, National Geographic is an ideal partner to help expand these stories and we look forward to bringing The Greeks to millions of people worldwide in 2012.”

National Geographic Television and distributor National Geographic Television International are seeking further co-production partners for the documentary series and are keen to hear from interested broadcasters.