Rose d'Or Festival 2008 has opened its doors

 The 48th Rose d'Or Festival opened at the Grand Casino in Lucerne on Friday. 75 entries from the world of television entertainment are vying for one of the eight Golden Roses. Swiss Television's "The Magic Flute - in front of and behind the scenes" is also nominated. The shortlist was chosen from a total of 402 television programs from 34 countries. With 31 entries, England has the most nominations. Eight each come from Germany and the Netherlands. The remaining nominations come from the rest of Europe, Japan and Australia. Swiss television is nominated in the Performing Arts category with 'The Magic Flute
The competition is divided into eight categories: Arts Documentary, Comedy, Drama, Sitcom, Entertainment, Game Show, Performing Arts and Reality. One of the coveted Golden Roses can be won in each of these categories. Best Entertainer and Best of 2008 will also be honored with one rose each.
It has already been decided that Ben Silverman, Co-Chairman of NBC Entertainment and Universal Studios, will receive the honorary rose. In the coming days, a 20-member jury will decide which of the nominees will receive a Rose d'Or Award at the awards ceremony on May 6 at the Lucerne Culture and Convention Center (KKL).