• Arqiva to install a live satellite network in City Screen's Picturehouse cinemas across the UK
• City Screen is first cinema circuit to install a nationwide private satellite network in the UK to support live events in Standard and High Definition
• First live broadcast will be Amnesty International's newly-revived Secret Policeman's Ball

Arqiva has secured a deal with City Screen Limited - owners of the Picturehouse cinemas - to install a live digital cinema network in all Picturehouse franchises across the UK. The deal will enable the live screening of major entertainment and sporting events in Standard and High Definition via Arqiva's digital satellite network. The first event to be screened using the new network will be the return of Amnesty International's Secret Policeman's Ball, the legendary comedy and music event, from the Royal Albert Hall on October 14th.

Arqiva will install and maintain the permanent satellite infrastructure at the Picturehouse cinemas. The satellite receivers will connect to the cinemas' digital projectors, equipping the cinemas to screen live events in Standard or High Definition. Arqiva will also provide the Outside Broadcasts to enable the live transmission of events. Live feeds will be collected on location, turned around and distributed nationwide via a range of satellites. 

"We're committed to providing a diverse and innovative range of listings to our customers, now including lectures, music and sporting events, and are delighted to be able to offer Amnesty International's Secret Policeman's Ball as our launch event," commented Marc John, of City Screens Limited. "This is a great step forward for the concept of alternative digital programming which will help us drive new revenues while broadening our range of screenings. City Screen is the first cinema circuit to install a nationwide private satellite network and we're excited to be at the forefront of developments in UK digital cinema".

George Eyles, head of sales for Digital Media Networks at Arqiva added, "As an independent provider of integrated digital media networks, Arqiva is in the unique position of being able to tailor services for each individual customer.  We're working closely with City Screens to develop a solution that works for each of their Picturehouse cinemas, enabling them to broaden their offering, both in terms of the variety in their programming and the new technologies at their disposal. This live satellite network is an innovation in digital media networks and we're committed to continuing development of new technologies and delivering a broader range of content."