Stephen Cook the CEO and founder of TCG Entertainment chatted about his career and upcoming plans.
Cook is the mastermind behind multiple productions including the groundbreaking Cirque Musica and MasterChef Junior Live; pushing the boundaries and creating a successful framework for live touring productions as Founder and President of TCG Entertainment.
TCG Entertainment is a leading producer of creative content for live entertainment properties and touring productions. Owning multiple intellectual properties, as well as partnering with top IP holders and studios, TCG has partnered with top companies and studios such as Endemol Shine North America, Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment, and MGM Studios, TCG has become a reliable source in the live-space industry for branded IP projects, as well as one of the largest producers of Symphonic shows.
As founder and president of TCG Entertainment, what does your job description involve?
Create and go–that pretty much sums up my job description! Our goal at TCG Entertainment is to be the top Live Entertainment company in the industry. Every day we make our stride in that direction and every day is different.
I spend a lot of time talking with IP owners while also working on TCG IPs like Cirque Musica. That’s the fun part. The “real work” is getting the projects to the market, booking the tour, putting the team together, etc.
How does it feel to be a founder and president in the digital age? (Now with streaming and technology being so prevalent?
One point of view is the digital age could and is replacing the “live age.” People sat at home for two years on their devices with all the entertainment they wanted. It is a challenge to get them to change that mindset to go out and experience live entertainment again; however, we believe nothing replicates a live entertainment experience.
What motivates you each day?
An internal drive to succeed as well as a supportive family is what motivates me each day.
What do your plans for the future include with TCG Entertainment?
Plans for the future of TCG Entertainment are to continue our rapid growth. In the last few years, we have done deals with The Prince Estate, Endemol Shine (MasterChef), MGM, Warner Bros, etc.
As we bounce back from the pandemic and find our footing, we will regain our stride and continue to create and bring amazing live experiences to audiences around the world.
What are some of your proudest professional moments?
First on my list of proudest professional moments is being able to start a company and keeping that company going for over 10 years. Professionally and personally, I’m proud of earning my MBA while working full-time. Another great professional moment was when “4U: The Music of Prince” sold out Royal Albert Hall in London.
I also felt really proud to have had one of my shows in my hometown of Lakeland, FL at the Lakeland Center where I used to work as an usher when I was a kid. That was a full circle moment for me!
What does the word success mean to you?
For me, success is doing the best you can, taking care of your family, and enjoying it along the way.
What would you like to tell our readers about TCG Entertainment? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it)
Being an entrepreneur, I think I appreciate other entrepreneurs more, so I would tell your readers to support the local businesses in their city. It’s hard to risk it all to open your own shop, store, consulting, company, digital agency, etc. Everyone needs support from their respective market.
