Mag Rack Boosts Originals

Mag Rack’s programming shelves are getting filled.

The Rainbow Media Holdings LLC-owned niche video-on-demand service said it will significantly increase its original programming slate for 2005.

In January, Mag Rack will debut The Everyday Low-Carb Gourmet, which it called the first television program dedicated to the low-carbohydrate lifestyle.

That same month will see the premiere of Let’s Dance, which will offer beginner and intermediate instruction in dance styles including swing, tango, salsa, freestyle, hip-hop and slow dance.

Mag Rack will also increase original productions for five of its most popular destinations: 24seven gamer, Guitar Xpress, Auto Access, Motorcycle Freedom and Wild Wheels.

“When Rainbow launched Mag Rack in 2001, the concept of video-on-demand was at its infancy,” Mag Rack senior vice president and general manager Dan Ronayne said in a prepared statement. “Realizing the capabilities of VOD and its long-term potential, we feel that making a bigger commitment to original productions specifically for VOD is the natural next step.”

He continued, “It is more important than ever before to evaluate the category and to meet the changing needs of the consumer. Expanding our commitment to producing compelling content for our growing audience is part of our larger strategy to be the pre-eminent name in VOD.”