New Oscar Backstage Pass app for iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch

iPad, iPhone and iPod touch users can get the ultimate insider's view of the 83rd Annual Academy Awards with the new Oscar Backstage Pass app, now available on the App Store. The Oscar Backstage Pass app, a collaborative effort between the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and Disney/ABC TV Group's Digital Media team, is a perfect companion app for viewers watching the Oscar telecast on Sunday, Feb. 27.

Users will have access to live video streams from a multitude of cameras, allowing special behind-the-scenes access throughout the night's events. They will be able to choose their own video experience on the red carpet and inside the ceremony with live video coverage extending through the Governors Ball, the academy's celebration immediately following the Academy Awards.

"The Backstage Pass App is one of the many ways that we are using digital technology to redefine the Oscar experience this year," said Albert Cheng, executive vice president of digital media for Disney/ABC Television Group. "Together with the academy, we're excited to be able to lower the 'velvet rope' and offer viewers new ways to be a part of Hollywood's biggest night. We wanted to offer an experience to viewers that allows them to feel like they're there with their favorite nominees and be able to see the stars mingle at this prestigious event."

The Oscar Backstage Pass app is available for $0.99 from the App Store on iPad at www.itunes.com/appstore.

A video demo of the new Oscar Backstage Pass app can be viewed at http://oscar.go.com/?&clipId=VD55112789&playlistId=PL55103821.

The new app complements this year's interactive features on Oscar.com, the official online home of the 83rd Annual Academy Awards. The site invites viewers to participate in the most interactive Oscar Night in history, providing unprecedented coverage and access to the Oscars from nominations morning to the glamorous red carpet, into the Kodak Theatre, backstage, and culminating at the academy's official post-ceremony celebration, the Governors Ball. 

The 83rd Annual Academy Awards will be presented on Sunday, Feb. 27, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood and Highland Center, and televised live by the ABC Television Network beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET.