Published: July 19, 2021 | Updated: 19th July 2021
A fast-growing entertainment consultancy founded in Dorset is expanding its business to the USA.
DawsonWard is opening an operation in the heart of New York, supported by leading entertainment executive and talent manager Allyson Urban, pictured left.
Less than a year after opening its doors, the consultancy is now partnering on a range of high-profile transatlantic client projects.
It’s also offering valuable commercial intelligence, advice and creative services to leading entertainment businesses on both sides of the pond.
Founded by industry entertainment executives Natalie Dawson and Jason Ward in 2020, DawsonWard uses decades of expertise to help a range of brands and businesses to navigate the post-Covid entertainment landscape.
As consultants, it has supported the creation of growth strategies, artist development, team structure, business branding and creative projects.
Clients include Veritas Entertainment and ISG as well as individual artists seeking to develop their business.
In the UK, DawsonWard has successfully directed Jon Courtenay, pictured, the first ever Golden Buzzer Act to win Britain’s Got Talent, in his debut show and UK national tour.
It is also currently working with children’s street dance brand Lil Beatz to create a unique live experience.
In the USA, DawsonWard is working with producers Kendrell Bowman and Anthony Wayne on the UK expansion of their hit New York shows.
It’s also using its expertise on a creative project with award-winning Vegas and Broadway illusionists Kalin and Jinger, among others.
In addition to its consultancy work, DawsonWard runs exclusive workshops that take a fresh look at entertainment brands, venues and performers from the outside, examining their processes, products and people.
Jason, pictured left, who lives in Southbourne, has created, delivered and managed entertainment for Disney, Cunard Line and Celebrity Cruises.
Latterly he was Entertainment Development Manager for P&O Cruises.
He said: “During the pandemic, it became clear to me that there was an amazing opportunity to draw on our shared experience and take a fresh look at the entertainment business, as well as supporting live entertainment professionals worldwide.”
Following their successful launch in the UK, Jason and Natalie both identified demand on the other side of the Atlantic, with US-based professionals and businesses wanting to learn more about the UK market, and a reciprocal interest among British clients seeking to work across America.
Jason said: “I am so excited to announce that Allyson Urban is joining DawsonWard to underpin our expansion in the US.
“Based in Manhattan, she will support the growth of our US operations and provide expert industry insight on the US cruise and attractions market to our UK clients.”
Natalie, pictured right, who led creative output at TEDGroup and Parkdean Resorts and was Creative Director at TAG Live, said: “Our UK clients are now able to benefit from direct access to US talent and opportunities.
“With Allyson Urban at the helm of our US team, we are plugged directly into the US market in terms of insight and knowledge.
“We are also partnering on exciting projects with producers and creatives in New York and Las Vegas and with premium Broadway talent seeking special guest appearances on five-star cruise lines.”
Allyson has provided casting support and contracting for the Walt Disney Company parks entertainment division before joining Disney Cruise Line as Assistant Talent Manager.
She then joined Fusion Talent Group as Director of Talent Management working across the US and Canada.
Allyson said: “I’m thrilled to bring my knowledge and passion for the arts industry to DawsonWard, and help talented clients put their best foot forward on stages around the world.”
