Thema Rus takes over distribution of Mezzo and Mezzo Live HD

Canal + International-owned distribution subsidiary Thema’s Russian unit is to handle distribution of classical music channels Mezzo and Mezzo Live HD and related on-demand services across the Russian Federation.

Thema said that the move is part of the development of Thema Rus and the consolidation of all the assets of Thema within one portfolio.

Thema Rus has handled distribution of the two channels in Kazakhstan, Armenia and Georgia since the start of this year.

Due to an agreement with Thema and as part of the transfer of the Mezzo mandate to Thema Rus, Universal Distribution company will maintain the current contracts with platforms operating in the territories of Ukraine and Belarus until the end of this year.
Hervé Boissière, CEO of Mezzo, said: “Mezzo is available all over the world and is broadcasted in 90-plus countries to over 65 million subscribers, and Russia has always been a key territory for us for two decades. Thanks to the amazing interest for classical music there and to very strong and creative partnerships we have with the best music institutions like The Bolshoï or The Mariinsky Theater, to name a few. In the region, Mezzo and Mezzo Live HD TV channels are part of all major Russian and CIS operators’ offers, including Tricolor, Rostelecom, MTS, NTV-Plus, Akado, Beeline, ER-Telecom, Megafon, Alma TV, Kazakhtekecom, Volia TV, Cosmos TV, A1 and others. Our global partnership with Thema marks a new milestone in the development of Mezzo, as we strive more than ever to bring the beauty of music, opera, jazz and dance to the expanding audience around the world.”
Natalya Kabikova, Managing Director of Thema Rus, said: “Our entire team welcomes the expansion of Thema Rus’ content portfolio with Mezzo and Mezzo Live HD with great enthusiasm. We will strive to strengthen and expand Mezzo’s presence in Russia and CIS countries including digital distribution.”