First German Vertical Drama Series for TikTok launches

In the photo above: Alexander Schmidt (Daniel), Gio Yoo (Sara) and Lisa Junick (Isa).

Filming for "Between The Beats" has wrapped. The innovative series will launch in vertical format on TikTok in April 2026.

The production marks a milestone for German television series: “Between The Beats” is the first platform-native Vertical Drama Series from Germany, specifically developed for social networks.

Radio Bremen is currently setting an example for truly experimental storytelling.

New narrative format and changing viewing habits

“Formats and narrative forms are constantly changing, and at an ever-increasing pace. Radio Bremen is traditionally curious and open to experimentation; after all, with ‘Wishlist’ we created Germany’s first mystery web series ten years ago – it’s high time for a new experiment,” explains Jan Weyrauch, Program Director of Radio Bremen.

The series comprises approximately 23 episodes, each lasting between one and three minutes. The format caters to the mobile viewing habits of young target groups who prefer to consume serial content on their smartphones.

Vertical storytelling as a new challenge

Sven Sund, CEO of Saxonia Media, emphasizes the unique nature of the project: “This is also the first platform-native production of this kind for our label Red Pony. We have to tell stories differently on social networks. This affects virtually every aspect – and is incredibly exciting for us. And the format demonstrates how serial content can be adapted to the logic of vertical platforms.”

The 9:16 vertical format presents producers with entirely new dramaturgical and visual challenges. Unlike traditional series, each episode must function independently while simultaneously advancing the overarching plot.

Coming-of-age drama in the ballet studio

“Between The Beats” tells the story of the disciplined prima ballerina Sara (Gio Yoo), who is under the pressure of her parents’ expectations.

She hides her Passion for K-Pop and her dream of living in Seoul. When she meets Daniel (Alexander Schmidt), a musical talent at her school, her perfectly choreographed world begins to crumble.

The burgeoning feelings between the two clash with family obligations and Sara's inner conflict. The strained frenemy relationship with her ambitious friend Isa (Lisa Junick) further exacerbates the situation.

When Sara learns that Daniel's father is her father's long-time archenemy, she has to decide: Will she find the courage to stand up for her own dreams?

K-Drama as a German series

“Between The Beats” is inspired by the aesthetics of South Korean dramas and combines classical ballet with K-Pop culture.

This mix specifically appeals to a young, internationally oriented audience that has grown up with Korean pop culture.

The production was a joint project by Red Pony, a label of Saxonia Media, commissioned by Radio Bremen and Saarländischer Rundfunk. It is scheduled to launch on TikTok in April 2026.

Sierks Media / © Photo: Radio Bremen, SR, Markus Nass