A new studio has been launched to create digital content for women of color.
HB Studios will kick off with “Women on Top,” a 14-minute documentary directed by Leigh Davenport, in which celebrities like Soledad O’Brien, Lisa Leslie, Tia Mowry, Chrisette Michele, Beverly Johnson, Jody Watley, Jurnee Smollett, Anika Noni Rose, and Eve discuss what being a woman means to them. It will debut on March 1, at the start of Women’s History Month. (Watch the “Women on Top” trailer below.)
“This is a manifesto of what we believe our brand is and represents,” said Davenport, also the senior director of HB Studios and editorial director of iOne’s Women channel. “We’re producing powerful original content that’s not trivial videos about just hair and makeup.”
HB Studios will instead provide scripted and unscripted programming about “real women and the diversity of their experiences.” The shows — about the news, entertainment, lifestyle, beauty, and fashion — will be available on a variety of platforms, including HelloBeautiful.com and its YouTube channel, as well as its Facebook page and the iOne Women Channel.
Upcoming programming in development by HB Studios includes:
- “Power on Point,” a reality series about The Dance Theater of Harlem and the world of ballet as the company prepares for its second year of touring, co-produced by HB Studios with Walk The Talk Prods.;
- “#BeatCancer,” a short-form docu-series following two childhood friends who find their passion for music when one is diagnosed with a rare cancer and receives a very special gift from the Make-A-Wish Foundation.;
- “A Dream Deferred,” a reality show that will give mothers an opportunity to relive a life dream they once had but stopped pursuing for their families; and
- “Becoming Queen,” a look at the behind-the-scenes world of pageant season on historically black college and university campuses.
[via Variety]
