Heading into season two of its original series, Salem and Manhattan, WGN America wants to further promote the network as the new face of original programming.
Using Friday the 13th as both party date and theme, WGN America is heading to SXSW this March to throw a SXSW Film opening party fit for a Salem witch.
According to Adweek, the party will be transformed into a “witches’ playground.” Brian Dollenmayer, EVP of marketing and promotions for WGN America and Tribune Studios, added that the channel decided to make its mark on SXSW because of the potential to spread its message to that creative community, selling WGN America as high-quality cable destination. Salem will also host a panel at SXSW on March 14.
As it pushes further into originals, renewing both Salem and Manhattan for second seasons, WGN America has been trying to change its brand messaging since 2013 from “superstation” to a competitive cable network.
The network also recently picked up new drama Outsiders straight to series. WGN America also has unscripted series Wrestling with Death and Outlaw Country as well as How I Met Your Mother, Person of Interest, Elementary and Blue Bloods in syndication.
Salem’s second season will premiere April 5 on WGN America. Manhattan’s season two premiere date has yet to be announced.
Read more at Adweek.
Brief Take: WGN America, by making a big appearance at this year’s SXSW, is making it clear that it takes its rebirth seriously, promoting itself in the creative community as a network that can stand on its own.
[Image courtesy of WGN America]
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