BiggerStage, a new media venture founded by Pat Kiely, the former Managing Director of Virgin Media Television, launches today. Headquartered in Dublin, the business aims to develop and attract new television productions to Ireland – leveraging the wide range of production skills and talent that reside on these shores. BiggerStage is also set to open an office in the UK later this month, and is in discussions with several US agencies to establish a presence in North America.

Pat Kiely is joined in the new venture by Creative Director Sean O'Riordan, formerly of the BBC and London-based production company Betty (part of All3Media); Director of Funding and Partnerships Jamie Macken, formerly of advertising agency Core and RTÉ; and Director of Talent Jane Russell, the founder of Outlaw Management.

One of the central aims of BiggerStage is to develop original content for the global market – showcasing Ireland as a leading hub for international television production. They will also represent major talent in broadcasting and entertainment, and offer a development programme for up-and-coming talent. In addition, BiggerStage will partner with industry stakeholders and brands to develop new ways to fund and scale the audio-visual sector, as well as leveraging market benefits and incentives in Ireland.

“Ireland can play a bigger part in creating and producing world-class programming for the international market," BiggerStage CEO Pat Kiely comments. "Global demand for quality content has never been so high and BiggerStage will offer a unique approach, showcasing Ireland’s capabilities across TV production, format creation and talent development.

“As a country, we enjoy so many benefits that are hugely attractive to international programme makers," he continues. "We also have an abundance of talent across the media industry that can fuel the demands of the major networks and streamers for whom popular content remains king. In joining some of the dots across our three pillars of activity, we hope we can play our part in helping Irish talent play on a bigger stage.”