Bringing that same kind of accessibility to Shakespeare was one of the goals of ExxonMobil Masterpiece Theatre's 31st PBS season. "As magnificent as Shakespeare's language is, it's sometimes difficult for people to get past it and become involved in the story," says executive producer Rebecca Eaton. "Our new Othello stretches that story's reach considerably. We commissioned a script that keeps all the ambition, love, corruption, and betrayal of the original but translates it to a convincing modern setting: London's New Scotland Yard in the era of race riots and political spin."

This year, La Plaza joined productions like Masterpiece and Sister Wendy on the national stage. WGBH created a showcase for Latino culture 23 years ago, alongside Basic Black, which for 33 years now has reflected the interests and culture of the African American community. "It's clear there's an appetite for the multiple viewpoints these productions offer," says La Plaza managing producer Joseph Tovares. "La Plaza provides a window on diversity that's both needed and appreciated." The series' audience now extends to more than 50 PBS stations, whose viewers tune in for performances by groups like Latino band Mango Blue or conversations with acclaimed author/critic Ilan Stavans.

Greater Boston Arts is resolutely rooted in the local scene. "We canvass the region to introduce viewers to the breadth of new and challenging work by contemporary artists," says series producer Stephanie Stewart. "We visit well-known arts destinations, but also small theaters and out-of-the-way galleries." The attention pays off for organizations looking to build visibility. "Our phones rang off the hook," says Ballet Theatre's José Mateo, "with callers who'd never seen us perform but became interested watching Greater Boston Arts."

Bringing the arts to a larger stage also is the goal of WGBH's partnerships with New England-area film festivals, says Jon Abbott, general manager for television stations. "While an event like the Woods Hole Film Festival can attract as many as 300 viewers a day over the course of its run, WGBH can reach more than 250 times that number with just a single broadcast of a film like the futuristic drama The State's Conception. We're pleased to offer an expanded forum for independent voices."

Eric Jackson has been providing a venue for both jazz greats and up-and-coming talent for 20 years on 89.7. "I love to teach," says the host of Jazz with Eric in the Evening. "It's a pleasure to go on the air and present music in such a way that it's not only enjoyable but informative -- introducing performers who may be new, or may simply be new to our listeners. I feel fortunate to be part of New England's arts and culture station."