It follows the Government’s introduction of a tax break for unscripted programmes, which includes reality TV but also chat shows and other light-entertainment formats that are usually filmed before a studio audience.
No financial details of the tie-up and no precise timeline were included in the announcement that BiggerStage and Troy Studios, along with the production services company MBS Group, will work together to convince international shows to come to Ireland.
BiggerStage, a company founded by former Virgin Media Television boss Pat Kiely in 2021, says it will produce projects in the studio and also support extensive training and skills development.
“A number of pilot projects for international partners are expected to begin in 2026, alongside BiggerStage’s growing slate of original programming,” the announcement said.
Troy Studios, which has four sound stages and is owned by Hackman Capital Partners, says it aims to be a home for original IP development, where TV formats can be trialled and piloted at scale.
The tax credit for unscripted programming, which was approved last year by the European Commission and runs until 2028, is to be available at a rate of 20pc of certain production expenditure up to a maximum of €15m per project.
In order to be eligible, the total cost of production must be at least €250,000 and the eligible expenditure €125,000.
Mr Kiely said the tax credit is going to help Ireland compete more effectively internationally for TV formats.
“This investment in Troy Studios will allow us offer a world-class base for international production. Irish crews are renowned as the best in the business and we look forward to creating a sustainable centre of excellence in Limerick, surrounded by great infrastructure, expanding centres of learning and a brilliant hospitality industry,” he said.
Rob Lowe on the set of his game show ‘The Floor’, which is filmed in Ardmore Studios in Co Wicklow
BiggerStage has produced more than 250 hours of prime-time programming in Ireland, including major international formats such as The Floor hosted by Rob Lowe, and Next Level Chef, featuring Gordon Ramsay.
Its most recent accounts show that, in 2024, BiggerStage billed TV production costs of €54m to Fox Broadcasting, whose shows include Beat Shazam presented by the actor Jamie Foxx and his daughter Corinne.
Speaking to Limerick local radio, Media Minister Patrick O’Donovan said the tie-up with BiggerStage adds another string to the bow of Troy Studios.
“We have seen big movie productions there before, but unscripted shows provide the consistent work needed to sustain and train a local workforce,” he said.
Alastair Boucaut of Hackman Capital Partners said it was delighted BiggerStage had made a long-term commitment to Troy Studios.
“Our facility was built to welcome bold and innovative companies like BiggerStage, that have proven international production success. This collaboration will bring exciting projects to Ireland and strengthen the country’s creative industry,” he said.
Jason Hariton of the MBS Group said: “We look forward to continuing our work with the BiggerStage team to ensure they have the technical equipment and resources required to continue their leading role in the growth and success of Ireland’s vibrant screen industry.”