Excellence in Business Awards: Stage One eyes Rio 2016 projects

Stage One Creative Services has its sights firmly set on next year’s Olympic Games as its looks to recreate the success of its work at London 2012.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Oct 2015, 18:34 BST
(L-R) Stage One Creative Services' Chris Augur and Tim Leigh with Archbishop Dr John Sentamu and Justin Webb (Picture: Tony Johnson)(L-R) Stage One Creative Services' Chris Augur and Tim Leigh with Archbishop Dr John Sentamu and Justin Webb (Picture: Tony Johnson)
(L-R) Stage One Creative Services' Chris Augur and Tim Leigh with Archbishop Dr John Sentamu and Justin Webb (Picture: Tony Johnson)

The Tockwith-based company has become a leader in its field, creating spaces and spectacles for every Winter and Summer Olympic Games since Athens 2004.

Stage One was responsible for bringing the iconic London 2012 Olympic Cauldron to life, allowing it to become a central part of director Danny Boyle’s celebrated Opening Ceremony.

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Its inventive approach to visitor attractions, architectural spaces and event staging saw Stage One receive the Innovation of the Year award, sponsored by Drax.

Client services director Tim Leigh told The Yorkshire Post the title was “a real honour”.

He said: “It’s an honour not just to win an award, but to be part of a very vibrant business community in Yorkshire.”

While judges praised Stage One’s work and process, Mr Leigh admitted the continued drive for creative results can be challenging.

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He said: “Innovation is hard, because it means taking a look at yourself and looking at what you didn’t get right. It’s about being very self critical, but taking those criticisms and turning them into something positive.

“It’s tough to be hard on yourself, but by doing that you create a product that is ultimately better than your competitors’.

“I think ultimately that’s where we’re strongest.”

As for the future, Mr Leigh said Stage One has an eye on a number of large events, but is committed to continuing its diversity of work, including architectural projects, theatre and corporate events.

So should we keep our eyes peeled at Rio 2016 for some Stage One creations?

“Let’s hope so,” Mr Leigh said.