ESPN AND HISTORY CREATE CO-BRANDED PROMOS FEATURING SPORTSCENTER AND AMERICAN PICKERS

ESPN® AND HISTORY® CREATE CO-BRANDED PROMOS FEATURING SPORTSCENTER® AND AMERICAN PICKERS® 

TO AIR ON BOTH NETWORKS

SPOTS WILL STAR SPORTSCENTER’S SCOTT VAN PELT & KENNY MAYNE ALONG WITH AMERICAN PICKERS’ MIKE WOLFE & FRANK FRITZ

COLLABORATIVE SPOTS TO COINCIDE WITH THE SEASON PREMIERE OF AMERICAN PICKERS AND THE NEWLY LAUNCHED SPORTSCENTER SET

THE OLD ‘PICKED’ SPORTSCENTER NEWS DESK WILL BE AUCTIONED DURING THE ESPYS® WITH PROCEEDS GOING TO THE JIMMY V FOUNDATION

ESPN® and HISTORY® are collaborating on co-branded spots featuring SportsCenter talent Scott Van Pelt and Kenny Mayne along with Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz from HISTORY’s hit series, American Pickers®. The spots will begin airing on both networks, Monday, July 14, to highlight the new, recently launched SportsCenter set and the new season of American Pickers which premieres Wednesday, July 30, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

In the humorous spots, Mike and Frank find the pick of a lifetime, the SportsCenter news desk where the icons of ESPN hosted more than 32,000 shows. Once the pickers get the set from Van Pelt and load it into their van, they drive off only to find quite a surprise hidden inside the desk.

This is the second time ESPN and HISTORY have collaborated on customized spots. The first featured the hit scripted drama Vikings in February and involved Mayne and the Vikings character “The Seer” in three different promos that touted the series.

“ESPN has been a wonderful collaborator and this is an organic next step in our continued partnership,” said Samantha Maltin, Senior Vice President of Marketing for HISTORY & H2, “By combining forces with ESPN Sportcenter we can expand our fan base and raise the cultural currency of our core franchises."

Added Sean Hanrahan, Senior Vice President of Marketing Solutions at ESPN, “Following the success of the Vikings spots, we were looking for ways to work together again. Combining American Pickers with the debut of the new SportsCenter set, made perfect sense. It’s a great way to blend the two brands and reach a crossover audience.”

As ESPN’s flagship show is evolving to their new sets in Bristol, CT, the old Sportscenter “American-Pickers-picked” set will be auctioned during the ESPYS with all proceeds benefitting the Jimmy V Foundation. From this desk, ESPN brought fans the biggest highlights and covered the most historic moments. This is a once in a lifetime chance for the ultimate sports fan to own a piece of history and to help a very worthy cause.

About HISTORY®

HISTORY®, now reaching more than 98 million homes, is the leading destination for award-winning original series and specials that connect viewers with history in an informative, immersive and entertaining manner across all platforms. The network’s all-original programming slate, including scripted event programming, features a roster of hit series including American Pickers®, American Restoration™, Ax Men™, Ice Road Truckers®, Pawn Stars® and Swamp People® as well as History’s first scripted series Vikings, and epic miniseries and special programming such as The Bible and the Emmy® Award-winning Hatfields & McCoys, Gettysburg, Vietnam in HD, America The Story of Us and 102 Minutes That Changed America. The HISTORY website is the leading online resource for all things history, and in 2011, the United States Library of Congress selected HISTORY’s Civil War 150 site for inclusion in the historic collection of Internet materials related to the American Civil War sesquicentennial. www.history.com. 

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment company, features more than 50 assets – seven U.S. television networks, ESPN International, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN The Magazine, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by The Hearst Corporation.

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HISTORY LAUNCHES ‘BACK TO THE BEGINNING’ WEEK WITH PAWN STARS, AMERICAN PICKERS, SWAMP PEOPLE AND COUNTING CARS EVERY NIGHT THE STARS OF EACH HIT SERIES WILL LOOK BACK ON SOME OF THEIR EARLIEST EPISODES PREMIERES MONDAY, OCTOBER 20 AT 8PM ET/PT

HISTORY launches BACK TO THE BEGINNING Week, bringing the stars of the hit series PAWN STARS, AMERICAN PICKERS, SWAMP PEOPLE and COUNTING CARS to watch their earliest episodes with their fans and give an insiders perspective on what it was like when it all began. BACK TO THE BEGINNING Week begins Monday, October 20 at 8PM ET/PT with the earliest episodes of:

· SWAMP PEOPLE – Monday, October 20th from 8PM - 9PM ET/PT - with commentary from Troy, Jacob & Chase Landry.

· COUNTING CARS – Tuesday, October 21st from 8PM – 9PM ET/PT -

with commentary from Danny Koker and Kevin Mack.

· AMERICAN PICKERS – Wednesday, October 22nd from 8PM – 9PM ET/PT -

with commentary from Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz.

· PAWN STARS - Thursday, October 23rd from 8PM – 9PM ET/PT -

with commentary from Rick Harrison, Corey Harrison and Chumlee.

Throughout each night, the earliest episodes will be showcased up until midnight with special interstitials with the series talent. On Tuesday, October 21, fans will also be treated to a brand new episode of TOP GEAR at 9PM ET/PT and on Thursday, October 22nd with back-to-back premieres of PAWN STARS both at 9PM ET/PT, before returning to BACK TO THE BEGINNING episodes.

SWAMP PEOPLE is produced by Original Media for HISTORY. Executive Producers are Charlie Corwin, Daniel Laikind and Adam Briles. Executive Producer for HISTORY is Elaine Frontain Bryant and Wendy Greene.

COUNTING CARS is produced for HISTORY by Leftfield Pictures. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Zachary G. Behr and Ed de Rivaz serve as Executive Producers for HISTORY. Executive Producers for Leftfield Pictures are Brent Montgomery, David George, Shawn Witt, and Simon Thomas. Tom Romita and Jonathan Wyche are Co-Executive Producers for Leftfield Pictures.

AMERICAN PICKERS is produced by Cineflix’s subsidiary American Pickers 6 Productions Inc. Elaine Frontain Bryant, Tim Healy and Kristen Burns serve as executive producers for HISTORY. Executive Producers for Cineflix are Charles Tremayne and Mark Poertner. Mike Wolfe is also an executive producer. Series Producer is Michael Swanhaus.

PAWN STARS is produced for HISTORY by Leftfield Pictures. Russ McCarroll, Zachary G. Behr and Elaine Frontain Bryant serve as Executive Producer for HISTORY. Executive Producers for Leftfield Pictures are Brent Montgomery, David George and Simon Thomas. 

About HISTORY®

HISTORY®, now reaching more than 96 million homes, is the leading destination for award-winning original series and specials that connect viewers with history in an informative, immersive and entertaining manner across all platforms. he network’s all-original programming slate, including scripted event programming, features a roster of hit series including American Pickers®, American Restoration™, Ax Men™, Counting Cars™, Pawn Stars® and Swamp People® as well as HISTORY®’s first scripted series Vikings, and epic miniseries and special programming such as The Bible, The Men Who Built America and the Emmy® Award-winning Hatfields & McCoys, Gettysburg, Vietnam in HD, America The Story of Us® and 102 Minutes That Changed America. The HISTORY® website is the leading online resource for all things history, and in 2011, the United States Library of Congress selected HISTORY®’s Civil War 150 site for inclusion in the historic collection of Internet materials related to the American Civil War sesquicentennial. www.history.com.

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CRUISING PEACHY: HISTORY PREMIERES EVENT SERIES ‘THE CARS THAT MADE AMERICA’ WITH DALE EARNHARDT JR. AUGUST 13 AS PART OF ‘CAR WEEK’ DEBUT DALE EARNHARDT JR. TO PRESENT HISTORY®’S THREE-NIGHT SIX-HOUR EVENT SERIES ‘THE CARS THAT MADE AMERICA’ UNCOVERING THE STORIES OF THE LEGENDS WHO BUILT AMERICA’S CAR EMPIRES HISTORY® TO DEBUT FIRST ANNUAL CAR WEEK HOSTED BY NASCAR DRIVER BRIAN VICKERS BEGINNING SUNDAY, AUGUST 13 AT 8 PM ET/PT Additional Programming to Include New Two-Hour Special ‘Car Country’ and Enhanced Automotive Themed Episodes of Hit Series ‘American Pickers,’ ‘Counting Cars,’ and ‘Pawn Stars’ Featuring O.J. Simpson’s Infamous White Bronco, Plus Digital Short Form Series ‘Best Car Ever’ Celebrating America’s Passion For Cars

HISTORY® launches its first annual “Car Week” beginning with the premiere of the three-night, six-hour event series, “The Cars That Made America,” hosted and executive produced by Dale Earnhardt Jr. on Sunday, August 13 at 8 PM ET/PT. The series uncovers the stories of the visionaries who built America’s car landscape, changing our culture and shaping our country forever.

“Cars are a huge part of what America was built on – industry, innovation and inspiration,” said Earnhardt Jr. “I am honored to be partnering with HISTORY as part of their event series ‘The Cars That Made America’ to educate viewers and car enthusiasts about one of my passions.”

The week will also premiere an all-new, two-hour special “Car Country” on Wednesday, August 16 at 8 PM ET/PT, which explores when America’s love of cars began. The week is hosted by NASCAR driver Brian Vickers. Airing across HISTORY’s digital platforms is the premiere of the new original short form series, “Best Car Ever,” celebrating America’s passion for cars and the nostalgia they evoke with interviews from celebrity car enthusiasts. Additionally, the line-up will include enhanced automotive themed episodes of hit series “Pawn Stars,” “American Pickers,” and “Counting Cars.”

“Through epic storytelling and a broad look into the history of cars, viewers will gain an unparalleled understanding of automobiles from their inception to a peek into the future,” said Paul Buccieri, President, A+E Studios and A+E Networks Portfolio Group. “From the names that we know to the iconic brands that we love, ‘Car Week’ is certain to take viewers on the ride of their lives.”

A sampling of the “Car Week” programming slate includes:

“The Cars That Made America” – a three consecutive night, six-hour special event presented and executive produced by Dale Earnhardt Jr. premieres Sunday, August 13 at 8PM ET/PT and concludes on Tuesday, August 15 at 8PM ET/PT. The special uncovers the stories of the visionaries who built America’s vehicle landscape and chronicles the epic journey of how the biggest names of the automobile industry became the legendary household brands that car enthusiasts have grown to love. Through gritty, character-driven reenactments and never-before-seen archival footage, the special showcases the career trajectories of seven iconic and revolutionary figures: Henry Ford, Walter Chrysler, the Dodge Brothers, William Durant, Lee Iacocca and John Delorean. “The Cars That Made America” is produced for HISTORY by Magilla Entertainment.

“Car Country,” a two-hour special airing on Wednesday, August 16 at 8PM ET/PT highlighting America’s passionate relationship with the automobile. Beginning with the 1970s, the show takes viewers on a ride through the last 50 years of U.S. car culture, exploring how everything from politics to pop culture has affected the way Americans consume and love the automobile. Culminating with the cars of the future and what’s expected in 2020 and beyond, this special immerses car fanatics and novices alike in the lifestyle, technology, design, safety, luxury, trends and failures that defined each decade and paved the way for cars to come. “Car Country” is produced for HISTORY by Pilgrim Media Group.

“Best Car Ever,” is a six-part original short form series airing across all of HISTORY’s digital platforms and celebrates America’s passion for cars and the nostalgia they evoke. Each episode features a different theme with interviews from celebrity car enthusiasts and auto experts including: Tim Allen, Rob Corddry, Spike Feresten, Ricky Stenhouse, Jr., Fred Willard, Austin Dillon, Danny Koker, Toby Keith, Jeff Dunham and Wyclef Jean. Themes range from best TV car and best getaway car to best James Bond car and best family vacation car.

“Pawn Stars –‘If the Pawn Don’t Fit’” airing on Monday, August 14 at 10PM ET/PT. Take a ride with Rick Harrison as he test-drives the infamous O.J. Simpson Bronco. Will Rick pony up the big bucks for this million-dollar item, or will the verdict read no sale? “Pawn Stars” is produced for HISTORY by Leftfield Pictures.

“Counting Cars – ‘Mustang Madness’” airing on Sunday, August 13 at 10PM ET/PT. When movie star Michael Madsen decides to restore a 1964 Ford Mustang, he knows exactly where to go, Count's Kustoms. Danny and the crew dive into the project determined to breathe new life into this American Icon. When the restoration is complete Danny heads to LA to deliver the restored icon to Michael Madsen himself. From there Danny decides to take a side trip to follow one of his old passions, stunt driving and reminisces about his days as a professional stunt driver as he tears up the track like the pro he is. “Counting Cars” is produced for HISTORY by Leftfield Pictures.

‘Best Of’ “American Pickers – ‘Caravan of Cars’” airing on Wednesday, August 16 at 10PM ET/PT. Mike and Frank head across America looking for a treasure trove of automobiles. Along the way they come across all kinds of icons of the American road from unique concept cars to a tricked out hot rod in North Carolina made entirely of wood. It’s all about the Cars in this special episode of American Pickers. “American Pickers” is produced for HISTORY by Cineflix’s subsidiary American Pickers 6 Productions Inc.

“The Cars That Made America” is produced for HISTORY by Magilla Entertainment. Matthew Ostrom, Laura Palumbo Johnson, Jason Fox, Kevin Allgood and Keith Palmer are executive producers for Magilla Entertainment. Dale Earnhardt Jr. also serves as an executive producer. Sean Boyle, Stephen Mintz and Russ McCarroll are executive producers for HISTORY. 

“Car Country” is produced for HISTORY by Pilgrim Media Group, with Craig Piligian and Sam Korkis serving as executive producers. Sean Boyle and Zach Behr are executive producers for HISTORY.

About HISTORY®

HISTORY®, now reaching more than 96 million homes, is the leading destination for award-winning series and specials that connect viewers with history in an informative, immersive and entertaining manner across all platforms. The network’s all-original programming slate features a roster of signature series including “Pawn Stars,” “American Pickers,” “Swamp People,” “Alone” as well as the hit drama series “SIX” and “Vikings.” The HISTORY website is located at history.com. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/history and Facebook at facebook.com/history.

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#SmallScreenScenes #PatrioticPeachy #PresidentsatWar #February17 #February18 #PresidentsDay @History #WhomYouKnow HISTORY CELEBRATES PRESIDENTS DAY WITH TWO-NIGHT EVENT "PRESIDENTS AT WAR" PREMIERING FEBRUARY 17

HISTORY® TO CELEBRATE PRESIDENTS DAY WITH A GROUNDBREAKING LOOK AT EIGHT SOLDIERS WHO SERVED DURING WWII AND CHANGED THE WORLD IN TWO-NIGHT EVENT ‘PRESIDENTS AT WAR’ PREMIERING SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17 AT 8PM ET/PT

Network to Air Additional Presidential Themed Programming Including One-Hour Specials ‘The Secret History Of The White House’ and ‘The Secret History Of Air Force One’

HISTORY® honors Presidents Day with a landmark two-night event, “Presidents at War,” premiering consecutively on Sunday, February 17 at 8pm ET/PT and Monday, February 18 at 8pm ET/PT. The specials tell the story of World War II through the remarkable experiences of eight men who served in active duty – Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush – eight men who would go on to be Presidents. Each was changed by the crucible of war, which shaped the decisions they made when they reached the White House.

Like sixteen million other Americans, these eight future presidents bravely served their country during its darkest hour, and then went on to further service as the nation’s Commanders-in-Chief. Their experiences give a vivid picture of both the European and Pacific theaters of battle in World War II. Nineteen-year-old bomber pilot George H.W. Bush and twenty-five-year-old PT Boat commander John F. Kennedy fight on the front lines in the Pacific, as do Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford. Fifty-two-year-old General Dwight D. Eisenhower, a man who had never seen combat before the outbreak of the war, goes on to become the Supreme Allied Commander of the war in Europe, seizing it back from Nazi control.

These are men who played a first-hand role in the war effort. They become leaders who steer the nation through conflict and turmoil in the last half of what becomes known as the American century, fueled by lessons they learned during the 20th century's defining war.

“Presidents at War” is produced for HISTORY by RAW, an All3 Media company. Sam Maynard serves as the executive producer for RAW, an All3 Media company. Mary E. Donahue serves as the executive producer for HISTORY.

Additional programming airing as part of HISTORY’s Presidents Day slate includes:

“The Secret History of The White House” – One-Hour Special Premiering Sunday, February 17 at 10pm ET/PT

In 2010 tall fences went up outside the West Wing of the White House. This massive $376 million-dollar construction project was intensely guarded from the prying eyes of the press and downplayed as nothing more than a routine upgrade to the wiring and air conditioning systems of the White House. What is the true story behind this sprawling, multistory structure whose underground assembly required truckloads of heavy-duty concrete and steel beams? Many have speculated that the real center of power for the White House is underground. From the first bunkers built to protect FDR and Truman, to the rumored passageways, elevators and vault doors with biometric access control systems, "Secret History of the White House" explores both the hidden and known lairs that that lie beneath the most important piece of real estate in America.

“The Secret History of The White House” is produced for HISTORY by Railsplitter Pictures. Matt Ginsburg, Tim Healy and Chris Bray serve as executive producers for Railsplitter Pictures. Jennifer Wagman serves as the executive producer for HISTORY.

“The Secret History of Air Force One” – One-Hour Special Premiering on Monday, February 18 at 10pm ET/PT

“The Secret History of Air Force One” features exclusive footage to bring audiences inside Air Force One like never before. Gripping archive paired with insider interviews illuminates the hidden history of presidential flight and unveils the incredible history of America's most famous plane.

“The Secret History of Air Force One” is produced for HISTORY by Left/Right Productions. Ken Druckerman, Banks Tarver and Jeff Cooperman serve as executive producers for Left/Right. Zachary Behr serves as executive producer for HISTORY.

“American Pickers” – Special Themed Episode Premieres on Monday, February 11 at 9pm ET/PT

The Pickers are on a Presidential trail. At a Pennsylvania estate Mike and Danielle dig through generations of high-end items including a big old Packard fit for President Franklin Roosevelt. Meanwhile in North Dakota, Frank and Robbie are on their own Presidential Whistle Stop as they pick a jam-packed railway depot.

“American Pickers” is produced for HISTORY by Cineflix’s subsidiary American Pickers 6 Productions Inc.

“Pawn Stars” - Special Themed Episode Premieres on Monday, February 11 at 10pm ET/PT

This week on a very presidential “Pawn Stars,” $1 million is on the line when a photograph of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln makes its way into the shop. Next, an Easter egg signed by the entire Bush family sends Chumlee hopping. Later, a relic from World War II that may have been used by President Ronald Reagan himself takes Rick and Corey on an adventure to the Western White House of our 40th president. Will the guys come home with the money or get tricked by the Gipper?

“Pawn Stars” is produced for HISTORY by Leftfield Pictures.

“Forged in Fire” - Special Themed Episode Premieres on Wednesday, February 20 at 9pm ET/PT

Four bladesmiths honor some of the greatest Americans of all times – the Presidents. First, competitors pay homage to famed adventurer, President Theodore Roosevelt, by forging a replica of his Rough Rider Bowie. With precise parameters in place, the challenge proves to be tougher than a bull moose, and several smiths struggle to meet the mark. After brutal testing, two smiths pull ahead to move on to their home forge to recreate an intricate Presidential weapon: George Washington's Colichemarde. Whose campaign will come up short, and who will take home the title of Forged in Fire Champion and a check for $10,000?

“Forged in Fire” is produced for HISTORY by Outpost Entertainment, a Leftfield Entertainment company.

A+E Networks holds worldwide distribution rights for all the above programs.

About HISTORY®

HISTORY, a division of A+E Networks, is the premier destination for historical storytelling. From best-in-class documentary events, to a signature slate of industry leading nonfiction series and premium fact-based scripted programming, HISTORY serves as the most trustworthy source of informational entertainment in media. HISTORY has been named the #1 U.S. TV network in buzz for seven consecutive years by YouGov BrandIndex, and a top favorite TV network by Beta Research Corporation. For a deeper dive, visit history.com or follow @history on Instagram, Twitterand Facebook

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HISTORY® UNVEILS SUMMER PROGRAMMING LINEUP AND PREMIERE DATES Our Coverage Sponsored by Vermont Harvest

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Network Launches Four New Series:

Alone, Forged in Fire, Leepu & Pitbull, Lost in Transmission

10-Hour Event Series TEXAS RISING to Premiere Memorial Day

Slate Includes Returning Hits

American Pickers, Counting Cars, Mountain Men and Pawn Stars

HISTORY rolls out its sizzling summer line-up with the highly anticipated scripted event series Texas Rising premiering Memorial Day, four new nonfiction series and brand new episodes of hit series American Pickers, Counting Cars, Mountain Men and Pawn Stars.

NEW SERIES

Lost in Transmission – Premieres Thursday, May 7 at 10 p.m. ET

One man’s clunker is another man’s treasure couldn’t be truer for automotive aficionado and TOP GEAR co-host, Rutledge Wood and fellow car fanatic, George Flanigen. These two men are on a mission – rescue America’s forgotten classic cars that are sitting in ruins in barns, garages and the backyards of America and take HISTORY viewers along for the ride. In each episode, Rutledge and George will rescue underappreciated examples of automotive styling that time has forgotten – from resurrecting a 1981 DeLorean that was submerged in Hurricane Sandy to an insect infested 1964 Ford F100 - they will fix them up and get them back on the road. Go along for the ride with two buddies on the ultimate road trip… saving America’s greatest, weirdest and coolest cars. Produced by Adjacent Productions.

EVENT SERIES –TEXAS RISING – Premieres Monday, May 25 at 9 p.m. ET

HISTORY’s ten-hour television event series TEXAS RISING stars Bill Paxton, Brendan Fraser, Ray Liotta, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Olivier Martinez, Thomas Jane, Crispin Glover, Rhys Coiro, Jeremy Davies, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Christopher McDonald, Max Thieriot, Chad Michael Murray, Robert Knepper, Jeff Fahey, Rob Morrow, Kris Kristofferson and is directed by Two-time Oscar-nominated director Roland Joffé (THE KILLING FIELDS, THE MISSION). The Alamo was not the end of the story, it was only the beginning, and TEXAS RISING details what followed in the fight for an independent Texas. In 1836, west of the Mississippi was considered the Wild West and the Texas frontier was viewed as hell on earth. With colliding cultures all fighting for stakes to this territory, no one was safe. But this was a time of bravery, a time to die for what you believed in and a time to stand tall against the fierce Mexican General Santa Anna and his forces. General Sam Houston, the rag tag Rangers and the legendary "Yellow Rose of Texas,” lead this story of the human will to fight for independence despite nearly insurmountable odds and to claim a piece of history for all eternity. Produced by A+E Studios and ITV Studios America in association with Thinkfactory Media.

Leepu & Pitbull – Premieres Tuesday, June 16 at 10 p.m. ET

HISTORY® follows master mechanic Steve "Pitbull" and renowned Bangladeshi car designer, who is named Leepu, as they transform heaps of metal into a cash-producing business venture. Each week a customer with a beloved clunker, great story and small budget asks this odd couple to convert their bucket of bolts into a cool custom car. In this high-risk and high-octane undertaking, it's up to Leepu & Pitbull to turn their differences into inspiration…as they MacGuyver fixes to build winning wheels, satisfy the customer and rev up the riches. Produced by Raw TV Ltd.

Alone – Premieres Thursday, June 18 at 10 p.m. ET

The ten-episode series is the country’s boldest and longest survival experiment ever captured for television. It places ten hardcore survivalists alone in the Vancouver Island wilderness – no camera crew, no teams, no producers – on a single mission to stay alive. At stake is $500,000 awarded to the person who can last the longest. They will face extreme isolation and psychological distress as they plunge into the unknown, self-documenting their experience. ALONE will also air as a synchronized global TV event, airing in over 200 territories worldwide on HISTORY and other channels from the A+E Networks portfolio. Produced by Leftfield Pictures.

Forged in Fire – Premieres Monday, June 22 at 10 p.m. ET

The most talented bladesmiths in the world will test their mettle in this cutting-edge competition series. Hosted by weapons expert Wil Willis, a former Army Ranger and decorated Air Force para-rescue specialist, the series will feature world-class bladesmiths creating many of history’s most iconic edged weapons, from the Japanese katana to the medieval broadsword to ancient throwing blades like the Chakram. Production has started in Brooklyn, NY and is produced by Outpost Entertainment, a Leftfield Entertainment company.

RETURNING SERIES

American Pickers – New episodes begin Wednesday, May 6 at 9 p.m.

This is not your grandmother’s antiquing. Mike and Frank earn a living by scouring the backwoods and dirt roads of the US and rescue forgotten relics. On this season of AMERICAN PICKERS, Mike and Frank continue their mission to recycle America by rescuing forgotten relics and giving them a new lease on life, while learning a thing or two about American history on the way. In the season opener, Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys shows interest in a vintage Chet Atkins Gretsch guitar that Mike stumbled across in South Carolina. Produced by Cineflix.

Pawn Stars – New episodes air Thursday, May 7 at 9 p.m. ET

This summer, the stakes are higher than ever when Rick takes a big gamble and hauls thousands and thousands of dollars’ worth of his items to a major auction in Los Angeles. But unlike the Pawn shop, once an item is up for auction, he can't control what it sells for. Will Rick win big or will this be a total loss? Regardless, Los Angeles proves to have even more to offer, as Rick bounces around town looking to buy a few big pieces. His biggest stop….the home of a client boasting one of the biggest private collections of Disney memorabilia in the world. Back in Vegas, boys will be boys when Corey and Chum eye a mini monster truck – the Ultra 4 Race Car - that’s over $20,000 and they guys can’t help but “geek out” when an original Star Wars script signed by George Lucas and one-of-a-kind movie props come into the store with an asking price of $100,000. Produced by Leftfield Pictures.

Counting Cars – New episodes begin Tuesday, June 16 at 9 p.m.

In this season of COUNTING CARS Danny Koker takes the team deep into the world of Rock & Roll and continues to push the crew to build the baddest rides around. Count's Kustoms is hired by the family of rock & roll icon Les Paul to build a one-of-a-kind custom bike to be unveiled at a huge event commemorating the 100th anniversary of the legendary guitarist’s birth. And the rock rolls on with a restoration for Dokken's George Lynch, and a Steven Tyler-themed car for one of Danny’s demanding casino clients. Meanwhile Kevin lays down the law as Danny’s car addiction grows and he keeps falling in love with his restorations rather than selling them – if he doesn’t flip some cars the money will soon dry up. Produced by Leftfield Pictures.

Mountain Men – Returns Thursday, June 18 at 9 p.m. ET

This season, Marty, Tom, Eustace, Rich, Kyle and new Mountain Man Morgan, are preparing early for another long and brutal winter, but remain determined to face the season head on. In Alaska, Marty returns to the Revelation Mountains to put down roots with a new trapline and his family is coming along for the ride, as long as he can finish building the cabin in time. In Montana, a new threat deals an early blow to veteran mountain man Tom, who is left to pick up the pieces as winter sets in and the rules of nature he’s come to rely on over his many decades in the Yaak get upended. Rich finds himself battling a full-scale predator invasion in Montana’s Ruby Valley as he tries to keep the area’s livestock safe and in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Eustace takes a gamble on a new opportunity wrestling 100-foot-tall trees that he hopes will jumpstart his lumber business. While in New Mexico’s rugged Cimarron, Kyle works to secure a legacy to pass on to his son, Ben and in Alaska’s harsh heart, new mountain man, Morgan, attempts the most epic trek of his life – a nearly 300-mile journey across the Great Alaska Range – to claim his own piece of the last frontier. Mountain Men is Produced by Warm Springs Productions. 

About HISTORY®

HISTORY®, now reaching more than 96 million homes, is the leading destination for award-winning original series and specials that connect viewers with history in an informative, immersive and entertaining manner across all platforms. The network’s all-original programming slate, including scripted event programming, features a roster of hit series including American Pickers®, American Restoration™, Ax Men™, Counting Cars™, Pawn Stars® and Swamp People® as well as HISTORY®’s first scripted series Vikings, and epic miniseries and special programming such as The Bible, Houdini, Sons of Liberty, The Men Who Built America and the Emmy® Award-winning Hatfields & McCoys, Gettysburg, Vietnam in HD, America The Story of Us® and 102 Minutes That Changed America. The HISTORY® website is the leading online resource for all things history, and in 2011, the United States Library of Congress selected HISTORY®’s Civil War 150 site for inclusion in the historic collection of Internet materials related to the American Civil War sesquicentennial. www.history.com.

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Boston Pops Orchestra Announces 2011 Season, May 11-June 26

TICKETS GO ON SALE TO THE PUBLIC MARCH 21

2011 SEASON CELEBRATES THE BEST OF AMERICAN MUSICAL STYLES INCLUDINGJAZZ, BLUEGRASS, DIXIELAND, COUNTRY, GOSPEL, R&B, BROADWAY, AND FILM, CONTINUING THE 125-YEAR BOSTON POPS TRADITION OF BRINGING THE BEST OF AMERICAN MUSIC TO AUDIENCES THROUGHOUT NEW ENGLAND AND BEYOND

BOSTON POPS CONDUCTOR KEITH LOCKHART OPENS HIS 17TH SEASON WITH FESTIVE
MAY 11 GALA CONCERT FEATURING BROADWAY MUSICAL STAR LINDA EDER
IN A TRIBUTE PROGRAM TO JUDY GARLAND

JOHN WILLIAMS CONDUCTS FILM NIGHT SERIES AND PREMIERE OF HIS CONCERTO FOR OBOE

KENNY LOGGINS SINGS THE SONGS OF OUR NATIONAL PASTIME IN ADVANCE OF

FIRST-EVER BOSTON POPS MINOR LEAGUE BALLPARKS TOUR, AUGUST 16-30; DUKES OF
DIXIELAND AND BOSTON POPS CELEBRATE MARDI GRAS IN MAY; CHARLES FLOYD LEADS POPULAR GOSPEL NIGHT PROGRAM; AND RICKY SKAGGS AND KENTUCKY THUNDER
FEATURED IN “TRIPLE CROWN” SEASON FINALE

2011 BOSTON POPS SEASON HONORS THE AMERICAN SONGBOOK AND AMERICAN MUSICAL ICONS
WITH SPECIAL GUESTS MICHAEL FEINSTEIN, RAY CHARLES PROTÉGÉ ELLIS HALL,
WICKED STARS STEPHANIE J. BLOCK AND JULIA MURNEY, AND
NEW YORK POPS CONDUCTOR STEVEN REINEKE

BOSTON POPS INVITES SINGERS NATIONWIDE TO SUBMIT VIDEO RENDITIONS OF
“OVER THE RAINBOW” FOR SING-ALONG VIDEO COLLAGE
TO BE SHOWN DURING SPRING POPS SEASON CONCERTS

BOSTON POPS OFFERS NEW DISCOUNT TICKET PROGRAMS INCLUDING $20 TICKETS FOR PATRONS UNDER FORTY, $9 RUSH TICKETS, AND COLLEGE CARD

BOSTON POPS’ 2011 SEASON AND OPENING NIGHT SPONSORED BY FIDELITY INVESTMENTS

Continuing a 125-year tradition of bringing the best American music to audiences in New England and across the country, the legendary Boston Pops and conductor Keith Lockhart present a spring season brimming with a rich variety of American popular music and favorite light classics, May 11 – June 26, at Symphony Hall in Boston, MA.  A kaleidoscope of American musical styles, including jazz, bluegrass, Dixieland, country, gospel, pop, rhythm & blues, and the show-stopping songs of Broadway and Hollywood, will be featured during the 2011 Boston Pops Season, as the orchestra performs many of the most celebrated styles of our national musical legacy. The season showcases the phenomenal talents of musical theater greats Linda Eder, Julia Murney, and New York Pops conductor Steven Reineke; Boston Pops Gospel Night conductor Charles Floyd; film music master and Boston Pops Laureate Conductor John Williams; jazz trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling; bluegrass king Ricky Skaggsand his band Kentucky Thunder; Ray Charles protégé Ellis Hall; pop music all-star Kenny Loggins; New Orleans jazz ambassadors Dukes of Dixieland; and the great interpreter of the American Songbook,Michael Feinstein.

With many programs drawn from the ever-evolving American Songbook, Mr. Lockhart and the Pops will also present American Icons—concerts that pay tribute to some of the great artists who compose the national repertoire and give voice to its songs. These programs will include works by distinctly American composers including Richard Rodgers, Cole Porter, Dizzy Gillespie, Frank Sinatra, George and Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Cab Calloway, Mahalia Jackson, and Louis Armstrong.

"OVER THE RAINBOW" NATIONAL SING-ALONG COLLAGE
To pay respect to the shared cultural heritage of the American Songbook, the Boston Pops is asking for video submissions of fans singing “Over the Rainbow” for inclusion in a video collage to be shown at Boston Pops performances throughout the season. Voted number one on the RIAA and NEA’s “Songs of the Century” list, Harold Arlen’s “Over the Rainbow” is an American Songbook selection that unites generations and ties the 2011 Spring Pops Season together—from the Opening Night Judy Garland tribute to the finale “Triple Crown” performance celebrating America’s Heartland. The signature Boston Pops sing-along has long been an audience favorite, so this year the orchestra is opening the sing-along to a national choir. Participants of all ages can submit video of themselves singing “Over the Rainbow,” by adding a video to YouTube and emailing a link and contact info to overtherainbow@bso.org. Videos will be featured on the Boston Pops YouTube channel, on the Boston Pops website www.bostonpops.org, and at Boston Pops performances throughout the season. All video submissions are due by Saturday, April 26, 2011.

BOSTON POPS OFFERS NEW DISCOUNT TICKET PROGRAMS
The Boston Pops will offer a College Card ticket program for the 2011 Spring Season. Available for $25 to students with a valid college ID, a College Card allows students to see performances at no additional charge. Subject to availability, one ticket per card will be available for Spring Pops performances with the exception of the College Nights, May 13, 20, and 24, and June 8 and 11. Students with a College Card from the 2010-11 Boston Symphony Season may use this card. Thanks to a gift from an anonymous donor, $20 tickets are also available for patrons under 40 years of age on a first-come, first-served basis. These 20-under-40 tickets will not be available for the College Nights, May 13, 20, and 24, and June 8 and 11. In addition, a limited number of $9 rush tickets will be available for Tuesday and Wednesday night concerts with the exception of May 24. These tickets are one per person, cash only, and available starting at 5 PM at the Symphony Hall box office on the evening of a concert.

MINOR LEAGUE BALLPARK TOUR FEATURING KENNY LOGGINS
The Boston Pops’ first Minor League Ballparks tour, which Keith Lockhart has called a “marriage between the worlds of music and sports,” will take place August 16 – 30 at stadiums in Durham, NC; Fort Mill, SC; Lawrenceville, GA; Nashville, TN; Memphis, TN; Birmingham, AL; Buffalo, NY; Syracuse, NY; Rochester, NY; and New Britain, CT. The “Hollywood Hits” tour, featuring iconic singer-songwriter Kenny Loggins, draws inspiration from three of America’s favorite pastimes—baseball, movies, and rock ‘n’ roll. Legendary film music themes weave the tour together, with tunes from one of the most memorable baseball films of our time, The Natural, a tribute to renowned film composer John Williams, and Kenny Loggins singing “Footloose,” from the ever-popular film of the same name. 

SPONSORSHIPS
Opening Night at Pops and the entire 2011 Boston Pops season are sponsored by Fidelity Investments. The Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel is the Official Hotel of the Boston Pops, and Sponsor of the June 15th American Icons concert. The Hooray for Hollywood Series (May 25 - 28) is sponsored by Arbella Insurance Group Charitable Foundation.  Commonwealth Worldwide is the Official Chauffeured Transportation Provider of the Boston Pops. American Airlines is the Airline Partner of the Boston Pops. 

BOSTON POPS 2011 SEASON PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS WEEK BY WEEK, MAY 11-JUNE 18

WEEK ONE, MAY 11-14
OPENING NIGHT, MAY 11
Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops kick off the 2011 Spring Pops Season on Wednesday, May 11, with a gala Opening Night tribute to the music of Judy Garland featuring Broadway darling Linda Eder. Ms. Eder’s brilliant vocals are showcased on her new CD Now, which hits stores just before the start of the Pops season on March 1, 2011. She will be heard in full force on Opening Night at Pops, sharing favorites such as “By Myself,” “Me and My Shadow,” “Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart,” and “Over the Rainbow.” The May 11 festivities will include a complimentary pre-concert reception, complete with chilled champagne and hors d'oeuvres. Keith and Linda repeat the inaugural program on May 12 and 13.

FAMILY CONCERT (May 14)
The Boston Pops swing open the doors of Symphony Hall to all on May 14, for a matinee Family Concert led by conductor Keith Lockhart.  Appropriate for children of all ages, this concert will introduce young people to the best music of the Boston Pops, including light classical, Broadway, jazz, and patriotic tunes. The program will include youth-friendly selections from Harry Potter,Star Wars, and ET. Children will also be introduced to the music of Dizzy Gillespie, Cab Calloway, and Mahalia Jackson, when charismatic trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling steps on the stage to pay tribute to these three great icons of American music. Aspiring young musicians are also certain to be inspired when the high school winner of the BSO’s Youth Concerto Competition performs a piece with the Pops.

WEEK TWO, MAY 17-21
MARDI GRAS IN MAY WITH THE DUKES OF DIXIELAND (May 17 & 18)
Mardi Gras comes twice this year thanks to Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops.  Audiences will be transported around the world in a performance of music from Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans and Rio de Janeiro. Dvořák’s “Carnival Overture” and other light classical pieces open the concert, and the intoxicating bossa-nova and Samba rhythms from Brazil take a prominent role with tunes such as "Theme from Black Orpheus” and “Brazil,” during the second set. The Dukes of Dixieland fuse their authentic New Orleans sound with the Pops for the program’s energetic close.  

WEEK THREE, MAY 24-28
CLASSIC POPS (May 24)
Continuing a 125-year tradition, this Classic Pops concert taps into the Pops legacy for an Arthur Fiedler-style concert of Broadway, jazz, and light classical music. Some of Leroy Anderson’s most popular tunes will be featured, and audiences will be invited to join in a “Howlin’ at the Moon” sing-along, including “Fly Me to the Moon,” Moon River,” and “Bad Moon Rising.”

HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD AND A TRIBUTE TO AUDREY HEPBURN (May 25, 26, & 28)
John Williams may be known for his famous film scores including Star Wars, Indiana Jones, andHarry Potter, but he’s also written many orchestral works that showcase the talented musicians of the Boston Symphony and Boston Pops.  On May 25, the first night of the Boston Pops Laureate Conductor’s three performances at Symphony Hall, Mr. Williams will present the world premiere of his Concerto for Oboe, written especially for principal Pops oboist Keisuke Wakao. Film footage will be featured alongside the Hollywood scores during much of the second half of the performance. In addition to a special tribute to Audrey Hepburn, this program will feature a tribute to the heroes of film, including the Suite from Casablanca, and music inspired by the villains of the silver screen including selections fromDracula, and the “Imperial March” from The Empire Strikes Back.

WEEK FOUR, MAY 31 - JUNE 4MICHAEL FEINSTEIN AND THE AMERICAN SONGBOOK (May 31 & June 1)
Michael Feinstein, whose tremendous vocal talent is matched with an archivist’s instinct, will join Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops on May 31 and June 1 for an exploration of America’s beloved songs. Known as the “Ambassador of the Great American Songbook,” Mr. Feinstein will add his special voice to Boston Pops renditions of some of the best tunes from a century of great American music. This two-part program will first feature light classical pieces, such as selections from Aaron Copland’s cowboy ballet Rodeo, before Mr. Feinstein brings his Rat Pack charm to the Symphony Hall stage to perform tunes from the Frank Sinatra Songbook for the second half of the performance.

2011 YOUNG ARTISTS COMPETITION AT THE BOSTON POPS PRESENTED BY FIDELITY INVESTMENTS, JUNE 1
Following its phenomenal success in 2009 and 2010, the Young Artists Competition presented by Fidelity Investments (formerly known as Fidelity FutureStage) returns to Symphony Hall in 2011.  Created by Fidelity Investments to expand its long-standing support of the arts through music and arts education programs in local communities, the Young Artists Competition at the Boston Pops is open to full-time students grades 9 -12 attending any public high school in Boston or Cambridge.  Up to four instrumental and/or vocal grand prize winners will be selected to perform at a special Boston Pops Concert on June 1 at Symphony Hall.  Applications for the 2011 music competition are now available and will be accepted through March 4, 2011. For more information and application details, visit www.bostonpops.org or www.futurestage.com.

ELLIS HALL CELEBRATES AMERICAN ICONS (June 3 & 4)
A series of 2011 Pops concerts will pay tribute to American Icons, showcasing such great innovators of the American Songbook as Irving Berlin, Richard Rodgers, and George Gershwin. These concerts will launch with a performance featuring virtuoso multi-instrumentalist Ellis Hall on June 3 and 4. Mr. Hall will pay tribute to some of the icons of soul when the former lead singer of Tower of Power joins Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops for an evening of Motown classics. As the first and only artist to sign to Ray Charles’ own record label, Ellis Hall is arguably the best living artist to recall the soulful legends of rhythm and blues.

WEEK FIVE, JUNE 7-10
THE SWINGLE SINGERS AND THE AMERICAN SONGBOOK (June 7 – 10)
On June 7, 9, and 10, Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops invite the celebratedSwingle Singers for a flip through the later pages of the American Songbook.  These concerts will celebrate music from the second half of the 20th century, with a focus on “creative cool” from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s, and the music ofThe Beatles, Billy Joel, and Joni Mitchell. This program also features a Boston Pops sing-along to include Kool and the Gang’s “Celebrate” and Don McLean’s “American Pie.”

PRESIDENTS AT POPS (June 8)
The Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston's corporate community celebrate the 30th annual Presidents at Pops on Wednesday, June 8, at Symphony Hall. The BSO's largest fundraising event, Presidents at Pops is designed for Boston business leaders and their guests. Combined with its sister event, A Company Christmas at Pops, Presidents at Pops has helped to raise over $39 million since its inception in 1982. Presidents at Pops raised $900,000 last year, which was $75,000 over target, and a $1 million goal has been set for the 2011 event. Further details about this gala fundraiser, including the celebrity guest artist, will be announced at a                                         later date.  

WEEK SIX, JUNE 14-18
THOMAS WILKINS CELEBRATES AMERICAN ICONS (June 14 – 15)
The American Songbook would be nearly empty without the giant steps taken by the jazz greats.  On June 14 and 15, Thomas Wilkins, who was recently announced as the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Youth and Family Concerts Conductor through 2013, will bring his charismatic and engaging concert leadership to a celebration of American icons Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong, and George Gershwin. Returning guest artist Byron Striplinglends his bold vocals and bright trumpet riffs to these swinging performances.  Boston Pops principal clarinetist Thomas Martin also takes center stage for the Benny Goodman tribute.

BROADWAY AND THE AMERICAN SONGBOOK (June 16 & 17)
The Big Apple comes to Boston on June 16 and 17, when the Boston Pops welcomes New York Pops conductor Steven Reineke to the Symphony Hall podium.  One of the country’s leading Pops conductors, Mr. Reineke, joined by Broadway heavyweights Stephanie J. Block and Julia Murney, will perform selections from the American Songbook. Ms. Block and Ms. Murney will lend their soaring voices to some of the most popular hits from musical theater, including “Defying Gravity” and “The Wizard and I,” from the musical Wicked, in which both divas played Elphaba, the leading role.

GOSPEL NIGHT AT POPS (June 18)
Charles Floyd brings the Boston Pops Gospel Choir, his all-volunteer spirit-raising chorus, for an evening of traditional and contemporary American gospel music. One of the most popular programs every year, Gospel Night delights audiences with a lively sense of passion and celebration. Charles Floyd has brought Symphony Hall to life with Gospel Night at Pops since 1994.

WEEK SEVEN, JUNE 21-26
AMERICAN PASTIMES WITH KENNY LOGGINS (June 21 & 22)
America’s Orchestra honors America’s favorite pastime with Grammy-winning soft rocker Kenny Loggins on June 21 and 22.  Keith Lockhart will lead the Boston Pops and Mr. Loggins in a program of music from the Pops chart-topping 2009 CD The Red Sox Album. Selections will include “Casey at the Bat,” “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” and “Sweet Caroline,” as well as some of the best film music of recent years. Kenny Loggins will also perform some of his most popular songs including “This is It,” “Celebrate Me Home,” and “Footloose.” These performances are a sneak-peek of the Boston Pops’ first ever tour of minor league baseball parks this summer from August 16 to 30. The “Hollywood Hits” tour featuring Kenny Loggins will stop at ballparks in ten cities from Birmingham, Alabama to Buffalo, New York.  Please click here for additional details.

KEITH LOCKHART CELEBRATES AMERICAN ICONS (June 23 & 24)
America’s Orchestra and Keith Lockhart celebrate the musical legacies ofRichard Rodgers and George Gershwin in the 2011 Spring Pops Season’s final tribute to American musical icons. The concerts’ two-part program will first feature such Richard Rodgers classics as “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning” and “The Sound of Music,” before switching the focus to George and Ira Gershwin’s prolific careers with “An American in Paris” and “I Got Rhythm.” Canadian soprano Kathleen Brett and actor/vocalist Ron Raines will be featured during these memorable performances. 

TRIPLE CROWN WITH RICKY SKAGGS & KENTUCKY THUNDER (June 25 & 26)
Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder ride into Symphony Hall for a Lockhart-led Boston Pops performance featuring the music of the recent filmsSeabiscuit and Secretariat and classical pieces such as the William Telloverture. Expect a rousing “Call to the Post” from the trumpets to kick off this celebration of America’s love of horses, through the music of the Heartland. Ricky Skaggs has stacked up fourteen Grammys for his acclaimed bluegrass and the pickers in his band Kentucky Thunder have been part of eight of these awards. Derby hats are recommended for concert attire and the celebrated Armenian soprano Hasmik Papian will also feature in the June 25 performances.

BOSTON POPS PERFORM ON THE CHARLES RIVER ESPLANADE, JULY 4
Always a summer highlight, the Pops will once again throw one of the country’s largest Fourth-of-July parties on the Charles River Esplanade with a special guest artist to be announced at later date. The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, in its 38th year, is sponsored by Liberty Mutual Group, one of America's leading insurers, offering auto, home and life insurance for individuals and families, and a variety of insurance products and services for businesses. 

BOSTON POPS PERFORM AT TANGLEWOOD, HYANNIS, AND NANTUCKET
The Boston Pops has a full summer schedule with three concerts during the 2011 Tanglewood Season as well as performances in Hyannis, Nantucket, and on the Charles River Esplanade for the annual July 4 celebration. At Tanglewood conductor John Williams will lead a concert featuring James Taylor on Friday, July 1. Maestro Williams will also lead the orchestra during the annual Film Night on Saturday, August 20. This concert features famed actor Morgan Freeman as a guest narrator and special guest Gil Shaham on violin. Also at Tanglewood, Keith Lockhart will conduct the Pops in “A Tribute to Cole Porter” on Sunday afternoon, July 17, with Broadway vocalists Kelli O’Hara and Jason Danieley. Ms. O’Hara and Mr. Danieley rejoin the Pops on Saturday, August 6, at the Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center in Bethel Woods, NY, and on Sunday, August 7, on the Town Green in Hyannis for additional performances of the Cole Porter set. These performances will be led by conductor Robert Bernhardt. Keith Lockhart also leads the Pops under the sun on Jetties Beach in Nantucket, MA with guest performer Carly Simon on Saturday, August 13.

TICKET AND SPONSORHIP INFORMATION
TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets for the 2011 Boston Pops season at Symphony Hall, priced from $21-$121, go on sale at 8 AM atwww.bostonpops.org and 10 AM at 617-266-1200 on March 21. All performances start at 8 PM with the exception of a 3 PM concert on May 4 and a 7:30 PM concert on June 26. Tickets for “Opening Night at Pops” on May 11 are priced from $40 to $121. 

Tickets may be purchased online at www.bostonpops.org or by phone through SymphonyCharge at 617-266-1200 or 888-266-1200, Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM (with a $5.50 handling fee for each ticket ordered online or by phone). Tickets may also be purchased in person at the Symphony Hall box office, open 10 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Friday, and noon to 6 PM on Saturday. On concert days during the Pops Season, the box office remains open until 8:30 PM Most major credit cards and cash are accepted at the box office. For Group Sales of 25 or more, please call 617-638-9345 or 800-933-4255. 

Ticket packages to the 30th annual Presidents at Pops, start at $5,500 and include floor and balcony tickets with a sponsor page in the evening's commemorative program book.  Lead Sponsorships are available from $15,000 to $50,000, and include premium seating, full-color sponsor pages, tickets to an exclusive Pops Boat Cruise and Esplanade Concert on July 3, as well as recognition throughout the Pops season. 

The Boston Symphony has a dedicated line for disabled patrons who would like to purchase tickets to BSO, Boston Pops, or Tanglewood concerts, or who need information about disability services at Symphony Hall or Tanglewood. This line can be reached by dialing 617-638-9431. For access via TDD/TTY, please call 617-638-9289. Patrons with disabilities can access Symphony Hall through the Cohen Wing on Huntington Avenue or through the Massachusetts Avenue entrance. 

SPONSORSHIP
Opening Night at Pops and the entire 2011 Boston Pops season are sponsored by Fidelity Investments. The Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel is the Official Hotel of the Boston Pops, and Sponsor of the June 15th American Icons concert. The Hooray for Hollywood Series (May 25 - 28) is sponsored by Arbella Insurance Group Charitable Foundation.  Commonwealth Worldwide is the Official Chauffeured Transportation Provider of the Boston Pops. American Airlines is the Airline Partner of the Boston Pops. 

All programs are subject to change.

BOSTON POPS 2011 SEASON LISTING
Wednesday, May 11, 2011 8:00 PM
Opening Night at Pops
Keith Lockhart, conductor
Linda Eder, guest artist
Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops welcome brilliant vocalist Linda Eder to Symphony Hall for a tribute to Judy Garland. The program will feature beloved tunes such as “By Myself,” “Me and My Shadow,” and “Over the Rainbow.” A complimentary pre-concert reception will kick off the Opening Night festivities.

Thursday, May 12, 2011 8:00 PM
Friday, May 13, 2011 8:00 PM
Keith Lockhart, conductor
Linda Eder, guest artist
The Boston Pops led by Keith Lockhart celebrate the music of Judy Garland with guest vocalist Linda Eder. Ms. Eder’s brilliant voice will be heard with the Pops on favorite tunes such as “Me and My Shadow,” “Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart,” and “Over the Rainbow.”

Saturday, May 14, 2011 3:00 PM
Family Concert
Keith Lockhart, conductor
Byron Stripling, guest artist
Keith Lockhart leads America’s Orchestra and special guest Byron Stripling in a concert of light classical, Broadway, jazz, and patriotic compositions suitable for the entire family.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011 8:00 PM
Wednesday, May 18, 2011 8:00 PM
Mardi Gras in May
Keith Lockhart, conductor
Dukes of Dixieland, guest artists
Keith Lockhart takes Fat Tuesday global as the Boston Pops pays tribute to the music of Mardi Gras  celebrations in New Orleans, Rio de Janeiro, Quebec City, and Mazatlan, Mexico. Jazz ambassadors the Dukes of Dixieland come along for the ride and a Boston Pops sing-along will include songs such as “Food, Glorious Food” and “When the Saints Go Marching In.”

Tuesday, May 24, 2011 8:00 PM
Classic Pops
Keith Lockhart, conductor
The Boston Pops play light classical, Broadway, jazz, and more of your favorite tunes in a Keith Lockhart-led evening of Boston Pops classics.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011 8:00 PM
Hooray for Hollywood
John Williams, conductor
Keisuke Wakao, oboe
The Boston Pops reunite with Laureate Conductor John Williams for a night of memorable movie music of our time. This special performance includes the world premiere of Williams’s Concerto for Oboe, written for principal Pops oboist Keisuke Wakao.

Thursday, May 26, 2011 8:00 PM
Saturday, May 28, 2011 8:00 PM
Hooray for Hollywood
John Williams, conductor
Laureate Conductor and legendary composer John Williams reunites with the Boston Pops for an evening of musical hits from Hollywood.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011 8:00 PM
Wednesday, June 1, 2011 8:00 PM
The American Songbook
Keith Lockhart, conductor
Michael Feinstein, guest artist
The Boston Pops and Keith Lockhart welcome the return of talented singer and pianist Michael Feinstein to perform selections from The American Songbook. The June 1 concert will feature winners from the 2011 Young Artists Competition (formerly the Fidelity FutureStage Music Competition).

Friday, June 3, 2011 8:00 PM
Saturday, June 4, 2011 8:00 PM
American Icons
Keith Lockhart, conductor
Ellis Hall, guest artist
Virtuoso multi-instrumentalist Ellis Hall joins Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops on June 3 and 4 for a celebration of the big sound of Motown.  The former lead singer of Tower of Power will electrify Symphony Hall with the funk, soul, and R & B hits of Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, and more.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011 8:00 PM
The American Songbook
Keith Lockhart, conductor
The Swingle Singers, guest artists
The Swingle Singers, a multi-Grammy-winning a cappella troupe, are the secret ingredient in this Boston Pops concert to include selections from The American Songbook.  Keith Lockhart will lead the Pops and the guest vocal acrobats through three decades of American hits such as Kool and the Gang’s “Celebrate” and Don McLean’s “American Pie.”

Wednesday, June 8, 2011 8:00PM
Keith Lockhart, conductor
The Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston's corporate community celebrate the 30th annual Presidents at Pops on Wednesday, June 8, at Symphony Hall. Further details about this gala fundraiser, including the celebrity guest artist, will be announced at a later date. 

Thursday, June 9, 2011 8:00 PM
Friday, June 10, 2011 8:00 PM
The American Songbook
Keith Lockhart, conductor
The Swingle Singers, guest artists
The Swingle Singers, a multi-Grammy-winning a cappella troupe, are the secret ingredient in this Boston Pops concert to include selections from The American Songbook.  Keith Lockhart will lead the Pops and the guest vocal acrobats through three decades of American hits such as Kool and the Gang’s “Celebrate” and Don McLean’s “American Pie.”

Tuesday, June 14, 2011 8:00 PM
Wednesday, June 15, 2011 8:00 PM
American Icons
Thomas Wilkins, conductor
Byron Stripling, guest artist
Recently appointed the BSO Youth and Family Concerts Conductor, Thomas Wilkins leads the Boston Pops in the iconic music of Benny Goodman and Louis Armstrong, with the help of guest artist Byron Stripling’s smooth vocals and classy trumpet riffs.

Thursday, June16, 2011 8:00 PM
Friday, June 17, 2011 8:00 PM
The American Songbook
Steven Reineke, conductor
Stephanie J. Block, guest artist
Julia Murney, guest artist
America’s Orchestra welcomes Steven Reineke, conductor of the New York Pops, to the Boston podium on June 16 and 17.  Mr. Reineke will lead the Boston Pops in some of the best American songs of the 20th century with help from Broadway sensations Stephanie J. Block and Julia Murney.

Saturday, June 18, 2011 8:00 PM
Gospel Night
Charles Floyd, conductor
Dennis Slaughter, artistic director
Boston Pops Gospel Choir, guest artists
The all-volunteer Boston Pops Gospel Choir joins the Boston Pops and guest conductor Charles Floyd for the popular and spirit-lifting Gospel Night.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011 8:00 PM
Wednesday, June 22, 2011 8:00 PM
American Pastimes
Keith Lockhart, conductor
Kenny Loggins, guest artist
Grammy-winning superstar Kenny Loggins joins Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops for an evening of tunes from the orchestra’s chart-topping 2009 CD “The Red Sox Album,” including “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” and “Sweet Caroline.”  The performance will also include film scores and some of Kenny Loggins’ most popular hits.

Thursday, June 23, 2011 8:00 PM
Friday, June 24, 2011 8:00 PM
American Icons
Keith Lockhart, conductor
During the final American Icons program, Keith Lockhart leads America’s Orchestra in the music of Irving Berlin, Richard Rodgers, and George Gershwin.

Saturday, June 25, 2011 8:00 PM
Sunday, June 26, 2011 7:30 PM
Triple Crown
Keith Lockhart, conductor
Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder, guest artists

It’s off to the races with high-energy bluegrass from Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder. In a concert featuring music from the films Seabiscuit and Secretariat, the Boston Pops and Keith Lockhart celebrate America’s love of horses.

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HISTORY® GREENLIGHTS NEW DOCU-SERIES ‘AMERICAN FARMER’ FROM PRODUCTION COMPANY BoBCat EIGHT-PART SERIES PRESENTS AN AUTHENTIC LOOK AT THE AGRICULTURAL PROCESS FOLLOWING FIVE FAMILY FARMS

HISTORY greenlights the docu-series “American Farmer,” from BoBCat, the multi-platform production company founded by Thom Beers, Jeff Conroy and Sarah Bernard. The eight-part series will be an honest tale of risk, reward, hard work, innovation and grit centered on the lives of five farms across America.

Our country’s farmers are heroes who gamble every last dollar on their own two hands, who wage war every day against an unrelenting assault from Mother Nature, who toil on dangerous machines for backbreaking 20-hour shifts. Shot on location across the country, “American Farmer” will be an authentic portrait of the fight to go from seed to stalk, and from farm to fork. The series will present an unflinching look at the agricultural process, told through breathtaking visuals and interviews.

“We’re honored to continue our relationship with Thom and Jeff who have produced hit series ‘Ice Road Truckers’ and ‘Ax Men’ for the network,” said Eli Lehrer, Executive Vice President of Programming, HISTORY. “‘American Farmer’ will put viewers on the front line of the battle farming families wage to bring dirt to life and put food on our plates. Their compelling, genuine stories represent the ultimate quest for the American Dream and speak to the heart of our nation.”

“The life of the farmer is the last great untold story of America, and we have found an incredible partner in HISTORY,” said Thom Beers, Chairman and Co-Founder, BoBCat. “‘American Farmer’ represents a return to the roots of what is so special about reality television – this is an honest look at real people. When we were casting the ‘American Farmer’ families, we found characters as rich, diverse and compelling as our hit series, ‘Storage Wars.’ And our filmmakers are deeply embedded with these farming families for an entire season, giving us a depth of perspective that has never been seen before.”

“American Farmer” is currently in production.

About HISTORY®

HISTORY®, now reaching more than 96 million homes, is the leading destination for award-winning series and specials that connect viewers with history in an informative, immersive and entertaining manner across all platforms. The network’s all-original programming slate features a roster of signature series including The Curse of Oak Island, Forged in Fire, Alone, Pawn Stars, American Pickers, as well as the hit drama series Vikings and SIX. The HISTORY website is located at history.com. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/history and Facebook at facebook.com/history. 

About BoBCat

BoBCat is a multi-platform video studio and production company founded by TV hit makers Thom Beers and Jeff Conroy, alongside digital publishing innovator, Sarah Bernard. BoBCat focuses on non-fiction and unscripted storytelling ranging from linear TV and short-form digital to feature documentary and branded content. BoBCat’s latest series, Mark Hamill’s Pop Culture Quest, is available on Comic-Con HQ.

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#ReadThis @GrandCentralPub #BunnyMellon #MerylGordon @HachetteUS

An exquisite masterpiece of thrilling historical significance, Bunny Mellon by Meryl Gordon strikes the perfect balance between personal anecdotes and world history.  Bunny definitely reached her highest potential with understated elegance galore; you never knew how much flowers influenced history!  Her timeless calm and peace is just what the world needs today.  However, we wish you went to college too, Bunny!  (with us?!)

You'll enjoy virtually meeting all the formative gems of people in Bunny's life; we liked her maternal grandfather, an Ormond Beach enthusiast and her Dad, Gerard Lambert. 

In addition to Bunny herself, you'll enjoy hearing from/about Jackie Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy, how Bunny met Frederick Law Olmsted's sons (ever been to Central Park?!), Sister Parish, Kenneth Battelle (see Salon Peachy haircolor now)  You'll learn about the origins of Listerine, and how the Spirit of St. Louis got its name (no, we're not talking about the Blues, Laila Anderson) !

We admired her collector's eye, her loyalty, her understated elegance, her humility and her great appreciation for fashion.  For everyone that also loves American Pickers, you will enjoy Bunny's and Jackie's White House discoveries.

A fascinating read covering a woman who had great influence behind the scenes, Bunny Mellon by Meryl Gordon is a terrific read and an essential biography of American history.  With flower power concentrated in the Presidential Rose Garden with cascading results of consequence, Bunny Mellon thrived in her world and pioneered philanthropic trends with her own style, grace and class.

We never knew her, but after you are regaled through this fascinating, in-depth, well-researched tribute, you will feel as if you did: a quality not found in every biography.  Meryl Gordon, the author, did have access to the late Bunny Mellon and her friends and family.

In addition to the quintessential verbiage, the whimsical pictures by Bunny herself are highly laudable.  For all our readers that identify as ancients, you should know that Bunny's mother was one too but Bunny wanted to go to a "horsier" school.  (Bunny haven't you heard of the Farmington Polo Grounds?!  However, we will admit everyone had far too much homework to actually do anything in Garden Club.)

Bunny Mellon The Life of an American Style Legend by Meryl Gordon is Recommended by Whom You Know!  Put your apples on the stove to boil, and read it.

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A style icon and American aristocrat, Bunny Mellon led a simultaneously glamorous and private life. Best friend to Jackie Kennedy – she designed the White House Rose Garden at JFK’s request – and muse to French designers Cristóbal Balenciaga and his successor Hubert de Givenchy, Bunny served as a living witness to 20th Century American history. Bunny Mellon operated in the intersecting arenas of politics, art and fashion, mingling with Presidents, Queens, Duchesses, Hollywood actors, couturiers, and artists. She was on intimate terms with the giants of her era: spending Christmas evening at the White House with the Roosevelts for dinner and the opening screening of “Gone with the Wind,” and hosting Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip for lunch on their first official trip to the U.S. 

Despite her high-profile life, Bunny was incredibly discreet and cherished her privacy, rarely giving interviews. This fall, bestselling author Meryl Gordon brings readers an illuminating biography of this last scion of the gilded age of American wealth, BUNNY MELLON: The Life of an American Style Legend (Grand Central Publishing; Trade Paperback; April 2, 2019; 978-1455588725; $18.99). With the co-operation of Bunny Mellon's family, Gordon had access to thousands of pages of letters, diaries and appointment calendars, and conducted over 175 interviews with Bunny’s closest confidantes, to capture the spirit of this talented and singular American icon. The book includes never-before-seen photographs and original sketches by Bunny Mellon herself. 

An ardent gardener, savvy art collector, and discerning self-taught decorator who gave advice to her Foxcroft classmate Sister Parish, Bunny became revered for her style and good taste. Everything she did made news: creating a gardening fad for miniature topiaries; giving her blessing to fledgling artists and designers; turning up at her husband Paul Mellon's side to watch his thoroughbred, Sea Hero, win the Kentucky Derby. Yet Bunny Mellon deliberately cultivated an air of mystery. Regal and intimidating, mischievous and effervescent, the soul of discretion, she cherished her ability to wield influence in a quiet behind-the-scenes way. Late in life, however, she made headlines after she became enamored with Democratic presidential contender John Edwards and gave him hundreds of thousands of dollars; he was later charged with violating campaign finance laws and using that money illegally to support his pregnant mistress. At nearly 100 years old, Bunny was interviewed by the FBI and news helicopters hovered over her Virginia farm.

A remarkably little-known figure for how intimately she was involved in 20th Century American culture and history, BUNNY MELLON is a fascinating look at a bygone era, and a revealing portrait of one of the most iconic style legends of recent times. 

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