At this year’s Media and Entertainment Awards, DBA (Dryblue Agency) earned the title of Rising Star in Media, recognising its impressive development and modern approach to international talent representation. Founded in 2019, the agency entered the industry with a clear ambition: to connect diverse talent with meaningful opportunities across borders. What began with a handful of clients has evolved into an established network representing more than 650 actors and creatives worldwide.

The company’s progress is rooted in adaptability and initiative. During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, DBA responded quickly, introducing structured training for actors to self-film and continue auditioning remotely. This forward-looking approach enabled the agency’s clients to maintain visibility and momentum when production work had slowed globally. By focusing on practical solutions and maintaining a supportive, professional environment, DBA reinforced its reputation for reliability in an unpredictable market.

Now operating from offices in London, Italy, France, Budapest and the United States, DBA has refined a collaborative structure that allows all its offices to represent each client collectively. This model not only expands access to international projects but also offers casting directors a more efficient way to reach multilingual performers. The agency’s consistent growth, combined with its emphasis on integrity and cooperation, helped secure its recognition as a standout rising name within the media industry.

To explore the story behind DBA’s success, we spoke with Thomas Philip Brunney, the agency’s Founder and Co-Owner, about how the company has evolved, the challenges it has faced, and where it’s headed next.

In Conversation with Thomas Philip Brunney

Please provide a brief overview of your business or what do you do within the company.

DBA (Dryblue agency) is a premiere international talent agency representing actors and creatives. Headquartered in London with offices in Italy, France, Budapest and US, DBA operates an integrated model where all offices represent each client. This provides casting directors access to a multilingual, globally connected roster across film, television, commercials, stage and voiceover.

I am the Founder, Co-owner (alongside Nicholas), and Company Director of DBA. I also personally represent a select group of talents, working closely with them to advance their careers within the entertainment industry.

What would you attribute as the main reason for your success?

With over 25 years in the industry, I’ve experienced it from all sides — as a performer, producer, and creative. As a bilingual actor (under the name Thomas Kadman), I was represented by several agencies throughout my career and quickly noticed how traditional models often worked against international talents. This inspired me to create a new kind of talent agency — one that offered true global representation.

My background behind the camera — in production, casting, and post-production — gave me a deep understanding of the industry and its gaps. This insight helped shape DBA into a uniquely positioned agency that provides something original, impactful, and truly international.

What has been the biggest challenge you have overcome?

Our integrated, multi-office model was initially unfamiliar to many talents, and helping them understand and trust this approach took time. Additionally, the industry is extremely saturated, so standing out was another major challenge. However, our international strategy quickly began to gain recognition, proving that our model not only works but brings real opportunities to our clients.

What do you think made you stand out as a winner in the awards? Tell us about the specific project or facet of your business you believe earned you this award win.

I believe what set us apart was our resilience and innovation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite lockdowns and production halts, we adapted by ensuring our actors could continue working safely. We trained them to self-tape and film themselves at a professional standard, enabling them to deliver high-quality performances from home when on-location filming was impossible. This proactive, solutions-driven approach allowed both our talents and the agency to thrive during a global crisis. We were able to deliver highly creative content, shot by the talents, from the safety of their own homes, and this allowed productions to utilize the footage in their projects.

What is the next big step for you?

There are still new markets to explore as we continue expanding our international model. We recently launched DBA Hungary, making us the first UK talent agency to establish a presence in Eastern Europe. While this comes with its challenges, we are steadily building strong connections and collaborations to give our talents even greater exposure. The next step is opening another office — we’re currently exploring opportunities in Germany and Spain.

Would you recommend Business Awards UK to other businesses? If so, why?

Absolutely. Every nominee is carefully vetted and judged, so being shortlisted as a finalist already brings great credibility and value to a company. Winning adds an extra layer of recognition — a “cherry on top” — supported by an excellent marketing package that further elevates your company’s profile and visibility.

Looking Ahead

DBA’s recognition as Rising Star in Media highlights its clear, structured approach to growth and its willingness to adapt within an evolving industry. Under the guidance of owners Thomas and Nicholas the agency has developed a strong, cross-border framework that supports both performers and casting professionals with consistency and transparency. As DBA continues to expand into new territories, its progress stands as an example of steady advancement built on professionalism, collaboration, and a global outlook.