ABC News 24 To Launch New Arts And Entertainment Program

While the national arts community waits with baited breath on the results of this year's Budget, ABC News 24 has (possibly optimistically) announced the launch of a new program The Mix, to hit the airwaves at 7.30pm on Saturday, June 14.

Musician and radio/TV host James Valentine will act as program host, canvassing a vast array of stories from around the creative industries, including art, television, movies, books, games, apps, music, festivals, gigs, events, celebrities, theatre and the circus, which is possibly more exciting than the all the previous topics combined (we kid – it's definitely more exciting).

“I am delighted that James will be working with News 24 and bringing his talents and experience in media and entertainment to The Mix,” ABC News director Kate Torney said in a statement.

“The program is part of the ABC's recently announced arts programming initiatives and James is the perfect host.”

Valentine will be joined by renowned arts reporters such as Anne Maria Nicholson and Siobhan Heanue, and they and other contributors will provide the show's stories, in conjunction with ABC Arts, Radio and Television.

The Mix will premiere on ABC News 24 on Saturday, June 14, at 7.30pm (AEST), with encore programs at 12.30pm and 10.30pm on Sundays.  The program will also be available online and via iview.