Entertainers receive national applause
A North East entertainment agency has received national acclaim after taking home a prestigious award at an event celebrating the UK’s creative industry.
ISG (formerly i-Stage Group), headquartered at the North East BIC, was crowned Agency of the Year at the prestigious TEAA Awards 2025 last week.
The company was also a finalist in the Best Production Show category for its innovative “Ibiza In Symphony” production, marking a significant achievement for both the company and the region’s creative sector.
Led by CEO Paul Waite, ISG has grown into one of the UK’s leading entertainment agencies, providing services to major clients including Warner Hotels, Butlins, Parkdean Resorts and P&O Cruises.
Paul said: “This award means everything to us at ISG. It’s a recognition of our team’s incredible dedication and creativity, from our in-house production facility to every performer who takes the stage.
“What started as a vision in 2013 has grown into something remarkable, delivering thousands of shows across the UK’s biggest entertainment venues.
“This isn’t just a trophy for the shelf – it’s validation that our commitment to excellence and innovation in live entertainment is making a real difference. I couldn’t be prouder of what our team has achieved.”
ISG was set up in 2013 but has been based at the BIC since 2016. Today, it employs 7 people and provides opportunities for over 100 singers, dancers and musicians across the UK and worldwide.
“The support from the North East BIC has been instrumental in our journey,” added Paul. “Having a office and studio at the Jupiter Centre at the BIC has provided us with the perfect environment to grow our business, develop our creative productions, and establish ourselves as a major player in the UK entertainment industry.”
Paul McEldon OBE, Chief Executive of the BIC, said: “We are delighted but not surprised to see ISG achieve this well-deserved recognition. Since establishing their base at the Jupiter Centre in 2016, we have watched the company go from strength to strength. Its success perfectly encapsulates the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit we aim to nurture here at the BIC.”
ISG’s success highlights the thriving creative sector in the North East and demonstrates how businesses can flourish with the right support and infrastructure. The company employs local talent and operates a successful stage school, contributing to the region’s creative economy.
For more information about ISG visit https://www.istagegroup.com/