June 25, 2008

By By Natalie Der-Mesropian, L.A.

PBS's "Soundstage" is kicking off its sixth season summer lineup with a performance by Josh Groban on June 26.

As the show runs through August, "Soundstage" will feature performances by Bon Jovi, Matchbox Twenty, Kenny Chesney, Stevie Nicks, and REO Speedwagon.

"We are so fortunate to have attracted such a diverse group of artists for the sixth season of 'Soundstage,'" says Joe Thomas, founder of production company HD Ready. "I think more and more musicians are realizing that coming on our show gives them the rare opportunity to solely perform their best work in an intimate setting, for TV."

After a successful run from 1974-1985, Thomas reintroduced the "Soundstage" program by adding capabilities for 5.1 audio and hi-def visual technologies for viewers.

"What I envisioned was bringing the entire audience to the 10th row and
building a stage commensurate with what you would see at an arena show instead of asking the artist to alter their performance for a smaller venue," explains Thomas.

Subscribe to Billboard magazine today!