DLT Entertainment has announced plans for a new regional production company at The Sharp Project.
It comes following an investment in Manchester-based talent agency, Gag Reflex.
Gag Reflex Productions will develop daytime, children’s, game and panel shows, to be made outside of London.
It will be led by Gag Reflex Founder and Director, Lee Martin, supported by DLT’s Creative Director, Darren Smith and Head of Entertainment, Phil Tredinnick. DLT Entertainment’s President, Donald Taffner Jr will also join the board.
“Since I launched Gag Reflex over ten years ago it has been a joy to work with some of the world’s leading talent and also to be able to guide the careers of unknown performers as they progressed through the industry,” said Martin.
“DLT’s investment in the company will ensure that we can continue to evolve and keep investing in the plethora of incredible people to be found in our amazing industry. 2020 has been an especially challenging year for all, but Donald’s long-term vision for the group is inspiring, and we are thrilled to be part of that vision.
“With Manchester being one of the main hubs of the UK’s TV industry, Gag Reflex Productions will be a great opportunity to develop exciting new TV platforms moving forward.”
It’s the first regional expansion for DLT, but represents further investment in talent agencies, having previously backed The Soho Agency, Blue Book Artist Management, Andrew Roach Talent and MMB Creative.
Gag Reflex works with talent including Adam Kay, Barbara Nice and Britain’s Got Talent finalist Steve Royle. It also produces live tours and festivals including Tape Face in Las Vegas and is one of the largest and most successful producers at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
“We only invest in a company where we admire the team and like the way they are run, and Gag Reflex is no different. Lee is brilliant at what he does, and we hope that alongside his expertise, our input can help expand the company into new areas and genres and create an even wider network,” added Taffner Jr.
“Gag Reflex will have access to space and talent in London while the existing DLT team will have a foothold in one of the most vibrant industry hubs in the UK. It’s a very exciting time.”
