Christopher BarrettA national campaign is being launched aimed at educating young people about the range of career opportunities available in the live events sector.
The campaign is being coordinated by events technology provider Adlib in partnership with industry organisations such as PLASA (The Professional Lighting and Sound Association), The Power of Events, Production Futures and LIVE (Live Music Industry Venues & Entertainment).
Adlib has produced a 20-minute film highlighting the range of jobs within the industry that is currently estimated to be worth over £70bn to the UK economy. The film captures what goes into the staging of a major live music event and focuses on all the various specialisms that are needed to deliver a successful project from the initial communication to the finished delivery.
Adlib founder Andy Dockerty, who is also PLASA vice-chair and a member of the Liverpool City Region Music Board, said, “Most elements of the delivery of live events are unknown outside of the events industry and consequently not made available as an option to young people. As an industry we need to be directly engaging with schools, colleges, universities, local authorities, and government to enable us to get the message out there about the fantastic opportunities and careers in the live events industry which isn’t just about the performers”.
Production Futures will use Adlib’s film as part of its initiative to inspire young people into careers behind the scenes of stage and screen. CEO Hannah Eakins said, “Production Futures is excited to collaborate with Adlib, LIVE, PLASA and The Power of Events on this important mission to highlight all hidden job roles across the production industry. We can’t wait to share the video with our diverse community of young people, parents, teachers, tutors, career advisors and production newcomers.”
LIVE said has promised to help ensure, through its communication and lobbying infrastructure, that the film and the industry is represented at government levels. LIVE CEO Jon Collins said, “Live music brings joy to millions and is economically significant. Delivering gigs, festivals and tours needs a dedicated, expert team supporting the talent on stage. Raising awareness of the range of roles available, and the routes into those roles, can only strengthen our sector. Congratulations to Adlib for leading on this excellent initiative that will help foster the next generation of off-stage talent.”
Power of Events founder Rick Stainton added, “This brilliant video will add an additional invaluable layer of engagement and education to young people in our nationwide programme to encourage them to consider the UK Events Industry as a viable career – the insight into the huge range of jobs roles on offer will match their broad variety of backgrounds and interests.”