The Metropolitan Opera in New York plans to broadcast live performances to reach opera fans around the world and attract new audiences.

In 2007, the Met will transmit six of its live performances to movie theatres equipped with high-definition projection systems and satellite dishes in the US, Canada and Europe.

In addition, more than 100 live performances will be broadcast either over the internet or on digital radio.

The Met’s historical archive of around 1,500 radio broadcasts from the past 75 years will also become available as part of an audio on-demand service.

The Met has partnered with National CineMedia (NCM) – a joint venture of AMC Entertainment, Cinemark USA and Regal Entertainment Group – in the US, Cineplex Entertainment in Canada and Odeon/UCI in the UK and Europe.

The Met is also in discussions with potential partners in Asia.

Following 30-day slots, the productions will be presented on PBS by Thirteen/WNET in the US from January 2007, and on different television systems in other countries.

Live streaming of opera performances will also feature on the Met’s website. Details: www.metoperafamily.org