Keshet 12 turns to live performances

Idan Raichel preforming live on Keshet 12

Israeli free-to-air channel Keshet 12 has ventured into live performance in a bid to keep its audiences entertained amid the coronavirus pandemic.

According to the channel’s owner, Keshet Media Group, TV news viewing in Israel has risen by 70% during the pandemic, while primetime viewership has also increased dramatically.

The group noted, however, that advertising for commercial broadcasters has been cut by half, meaning higher ratings are not translating into profits.

Due to the higher viewership Keshet 12 is experiencing, the channel is boosting its news and entertainment strategy via expanded news tracks and entertainment slates.

As part of its new venture, it has teamed up with music company Zappa Group to broadcast live performances by Israeli musicians.

Three to five exclusive shows are aired live each day on Keshet’s Mako and N12 websites, while one selected performance airs live every night on Keshet 12.