First timers won't want to miss this casual, yet informative, welcome to the EVMC! Receive practical advice about what to expect during the conference, meet other first time attendees, and hear personal comments directly from some of the Board Members about EVMC 2019 and the days ahead.
‘Overnight sensations’ are largely a myth. In most cases, it requires time, talent, perseverance, and a committed team effort to break through. This panel features acclaimed, Canadian rock band Arkells and the team that has been collaborating with them on their most recent marquee shows and live accomplishments - including their hometown football stadium debut to 24,000 fans and selling out Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena. This dream team will dive into what it took to break through in Canada and their strategies in international markets; touching on topics such as selling tickets, building unique experiences and “going for it.”
Speakers: Max Kerman (Artist, Arkells), Ashley Poitevin (Manager, Entertainment One), Jack Ross (Agent, APA), Erik Hoffman (President, Live Nation Canada)
Moderator: Adam Burchill (MLSE)
Whether you are a first time attendee or a veteran of the conference, participating in the EVMC team building session helps kick-off the conference with a great networking opportunity and, most importantly, a lot of fun.
Location: 40 Bay Street
Enter through 'Scotiabank Premium Entrance B' on the east side
EVMC credentials required for entry. Due to league security procedures for the NBA Finals, arena tours will not be available during the party. However, the event will have a great view overlooking the bowl. Go Raptors!
Welcome to Toronto from Scotiabank Arena
Speaker: Melissa Bubb-Clarke (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment)
Find out the latest marketing trends from concert promoters and agents who work in venues across the country. Hear what marketing strategies are working, what aren't, and the challenges marketers face. Learn how to be a better venue partner and what promoters look for to increase the number of events in your venue.
Speakers: Paola Palazzo (Live Nation Canada), Jamie Loeb (Nederlander Concerts), Cody McGraw (Live Nation Canada) and Dustin Turner (CAA)
Moderator: Kevin Preast (Amalie Arena)
Laura Matalon will share how she has helped steer the Broadway musical, Hamilton, winner of 11 Tonys, a Grammy and a Pulitzer, from its first foray outside of New York to its current unprecedented four North American touring companies while maintaining the integrity of the brand, capitalizing on new opportunities and growing beyond non-traditional theatergoers. Expect to hear insights on community engagement and access, civic involvement, fan interaction and more.
Matalon is an arts marketing professional with extensive experience in the commercial and non-profit arts and culture sector, spanning theatre (Broadway, Touring Broadway), opera, dance, and multi-disciplinary arts centers. She is currently the Chief Marketing Officer for Hamilton in North America. Matalon served as the Managing Director and President of the company she co-founded, TMG - The Marketing Group, from 1998-2008. In 2008 Matalon entered into a joint venture with Allied Integrated Marketing and rebranded the agency as Allied Live where she served as President for 10 years. In addition to the above, Matalon has served as the Marketing Director for various commercial theatrical producers and has represented more than 75 shows on Broadway and on tour throughout North America. Matalon has represented more than a dozen Tony Award-winning musicals and six Tony Award-winning Best Plays.
Family Show Know-How and Group Sales Expectations
Featuring promoters from four of the top family show producers, this session will explore the importance of a strong partnership between promoter and venue and their shared objective to sell tickets, create an exceptional guest experience and drive revenue. Group sales departments work tirelessly to retain and grow their business, so what is the value of a venue group sales department and how can we work as partners to share our successes? As our business evolves, how can we manage change and what creative and innovative new ideas can be shared to benefit both? Are there assets and fan experiences that cross over from one show to another?
Join us to find out. This session will dive into a number of topics that will generate thought-provoking ideas and takeaways to benefit your group sales efforts.
Speakers: Kandice Nelson (VStar Entertainment), Matthew Pelland (Cirque du Soleil), Ian Winklmann (Harlem Globetrotters) and Jamie Jakacki Valdez (Feld Entertainment)
Moderator: Deborah Kime (KimeAdvantage)
Elevating the Premium Experience
Premium hospitality spaces elevate every fan experience. From corporate functions to birthday parties, they provide an atmosphere and level of service that can’t be matched. Learn how to sell and promote suites along with the creative ways to utilize the space. In addition, we will discuss retaining your premium clients with entertainment and gift ideas. The panel will feature speakers from both the team and venue side to really take a deep dive into best practices for moving premium spaces and creating unforgettable moments for our fans.
Speakers: Corrado Vivilecchia (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment), John Duff (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment) and Mike Ramos (Golden 1 Center)
Moderator: Christy Catoe (Colonial Life Arena)
Unraveling the Secrets of Marketing to Gen Z & Millennials
Millennials represent $200 billion in buying power, and now here comes Gen Z, representing another $44 billion in new buying power. But how do we best target and uniquely reach these generational segments? How are they different? Hear from a panel of Gen Zers and Millennials firsthand to understand what motivates them to purchase a ticket, how they learn about events, and how to customize your marketing strategies accordingly.
Speakers: EVMC interns and local millennials
Moderator: Jim Delaney (Activate Sports & Entertainment)
Even More How to Facebook, Taught by Facebook
Beverly Atkins and Betsy Lashaway from Facebook will share best practices for driving awareness of your events on both Facebook and Instagram by showcasing creative best practices. Highlights will also include how to simplify your digital ad buying to reach more people and drive more conversions to your events.
Speakers: Beverly Atkins (Facebook) and Betsy Lashaway (Facebook)
Venue Naming Rights - Beyond Just a Name
The days of venues naming rights simply putting the name and logo on a building are over. Two of Toronto’s largest venues, Scotiabank Arena and Budweiser Stage, both underwent name changes in the last two years and aimed to change the fan experience. This panel brings together the new brand partners and venue marketers to discuss strategies they put in place to be successful and what the biggest challenges facing them were.
Speakers: Nelson Lanza (Scotiabank), Caroline Wright (Scotiabank Arena), Adam Armit (Scotiabank Arena), Erin Smyth (Live Nation/Budweiser Stage) and Mike D’Agostini (Budweiser/Labatt Breweries)
Moderator: Kevin Chubey (MLSE)
Don’t miss the 5th Annual EVMC Awards Luncheon, honoring some of the most creative ideas and innovative individuals in live entertainment marketing. Find out the 2019 winners of the Most Creative Artist Gift, Welcome, and Marketing/Publicity Campaigns of the Year. Plus, we will honor the 2019 EVMC Gigi and Hall of Fame recipients!
The Toronto chapter of Women in Sports and Events (WISE), the leading voice and resource for women in the business of sports, will discuss ways for women to enhance their professional growth, consider what it takes to succeed in male-dominated industries, provide great advice and share overall experiences.
Speakers: Shannon Cole (Royal Bank of Canada), Leanne Bernardo (Consultant), Deirdre Molloy (Live Nation) and Melissa Bubb-Clarke (MLSE)
Moderator: Tara Slone (Co-Host, Rogers Hometown Hockey)
Host: Taylor Mims (Billboard/Amplify)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Carlos Vega (Ticketmaster)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Michelle McCarthy (Prudential Center)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Joe Rugo (Groupmatics)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Hosts: Susan Tuladziecki (Olympia Sports & Entertainment) and Mike Nieves (SAP Center)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Hosts: Kerri Troyer (Sprint Center) and Jill Buxbaum (Monumental Sports & Entertainment)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Hosts: Derrick L. Christian II (United Center) and Colleen Quinn (United Center)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Cara Vanderhook (STAPLES Center/Microsoft Theater)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Louie La Vella (Author, Event Producer & Marketing Strategist)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Marc Dinsdale (Facebook)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Carlos Vega (Ticketmaster)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Michelle McCarthy (Prudential Center)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Joe Rugo (Groupmatics)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Hosts: Susan Tuladziecki (Olympia Sports & Entertainment) and Mike Nieves (SAP Center)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Hosts: Kerri Troyer (Sprint Center) and Jill Buxbaum (Monumental Sports & Entertainment)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Hosts: Derrick L. Christian II (United Center) and Colleen Quinn (United Center)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Cara Vanderhook (STAPLES Center/Microsoft Theater)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Louie La Vella (Author, Event Producer & Marketing Strategist)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Taylor Mims (Billboard/Amplify)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Host: Marc Dinsdale (Facebook)
Each session will be 30 minutes with a 5-minute break to change rooms.
Hosts: Derrick L. Christian II (United Center) and Colleen Quinn (United Center)
Host: Louie La Vella (Author, Event Producer & Marketing Strategist)
Hosts: Kerri Troyer (Sprint Center) and Jill Buxbaum (Monumental Sports & Entertainment)
Hosts: Susan Tuladziecki (Olympia Sports & Entertainment) and Mike Nieves (SAP Center)
Host: Taylor Mims (Billboard/Amplify)
Host: Joe Rugo (Groupmatics)
Host: Michelle McCarthy (Prudential Center)
Host: Marc Dinsdale (Facebook)
Host: Carlos Vega (Ticketmaster)
Host: Cara Vanderhook (STAPLES Center/Microsoft Theater)
Join WWE as they kick-off the SummerSlam Heatwave Tour at Lavelle’s rooftop patio with an unbeatable view!
EVMC Sponsor Recognition
Bringing together representatives from today’s hottest social platforms to speak about how best to leverage their platforms as event marketers, this panel will spill frequently missed opportunities and some of their favorite campaigns as well as how this all works together within the artist and event streams.
Speakers: Michael Palombo (Twitter), Navneet Chhajer (Facebook), Connie Chan (Warner Music Canada), and Taylor Moody (Budweiser Stage)
Moderator: Emily Agard (Scotiabank Arena)
Blind Love - From Website to Venue, How Accessibility Can Reduce Legal Risk and Attract Untapped Ticket Sales
In 2018 the number of web accessibility-focused legal cases spiked within the entertainment industry, which is no surprise as over 19% of website visitors have some form of disability. Venues need to develop solutions and guest services that strive to reach the widest audience regardless of disability. Are you prepared? Join John Samuel, an Accessibility Evangelist and event goer who also happens to be blind, to become more informed and understanding of this critical issue.
Speaker: John Samuel (Accessibility Evangelist)
Moderator: Brandon Lucas (carbonhouse)
How PR Pro's Say "Thank you, Next!"
Securing substantial coverage with limited resources, keeping up with the ever-changing media landscape and staying relevant in competitive marketplaces makes publicity more challenging than ever. This session will tackle many hot topics and trends in the industry while sharing ideas on how to cut through the content clutter, keep your events fresh and more!
Speakers: Cheryl Cohen (Dunkin Donuts Center) and Erika Hall (Honda Center)
Moderator: Lisaann Dupont (Opry Entertainment)
State of the State - Our Current World & What the Future Entails
Those in sports and entertainment understand the importance of group sales when it comes to arena shows, concerts and sporting events. There are also obvious differences between those specialty areas. Join us for a panel discussion with representatives from some of the top agencies and professional leagues as they give us an update on where group sales stands in our industry and what our focus points should be as we look towards the future.
Speakers: Erin Leigh (National Hockey League), Mike Taylor (National Basketball Association), Tami Allen (IMG - Stars On Ice) and Deborah Kime (KimeAdvantage)
Moderator: Morgan Munson (ISlide, Inc.)
Creating Engaging Video Content & Where to Use It
Video is quickly becoming an important pillar in any venue marketing strategy, but what does good content look like? Where should it live? Do you need a host? This panel will take a look at how best to incorporate video content into your marketing plans. Featuring experts in community management, video production, and digital strategy, as well as some insight from YouTube.
Speakers: Mark Swierszcz (YouTube), Michael Gelfand (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment) and Peter Kelly (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment)
Moderator: Shreya Khanna (Live Nation)
Hear from conference sponsors about their latest technologies, learn about current trends in the industry, and/or catch up with current partners.
Site for EVMC 2020 announced
Chairman Ticketmaster Canada and EVP of Venues & Promoters for North America, Patti-Anne Tarlton is an executive within the Live Nation Entertainment family of companies. As part of Ticketmaster, the world’s leading ticketing company, Tarlton is mandated to deliver exceptional value to clients and ticket buyers alike in Canada and USA with innovative and revolutionary new products and services.
Patti-Anne has a deep understanding of the North American Live Entertainment Industry having spent her career as a concert promoter, venue operator and sports & entertainment executive in Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto. Prior to joining Ticketmaster, Tarlton headed up the Live Entertainment Division for Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE).
Tarlton is a member of the Canadian Music and Broadcast Industry Hall of Fame (2018), has been recognized as one of Billboard Magazine’s ‘Women in Music 2017: The Most Powerful Executives in the Industry,' was awarded the Woman of Influence by VenuesToday and has garnered recognition by industry associations and publications in North America and abroad.
Moderator: Erin Benjamin (Canadian Live Music Association)
Whether a rookie or a seasoned veteran, savvy professionals invest in understanding the necessary behaviors, skills and competencies required for career success. In this panel, prepare for a rapid-fire conversation that tackles leadership concepts including establishing your personal brand, navigating difficult conversations, mastering executive presence fundamentals and building your power of influence to achieve measurable results. Get ready for a candid discussion and specific action steps including real world examples from the live events industry - especially in the context of non-traditional behaviors and expectations that may be more widely accepted as opposed to other sectors.
Speakers: Diane Craig (Corporate Class Inc.) and Kate Girotti (Gila River Arena)
Moderator: Shani Tate (Sprint Center)
What better way to wrap the conference then by letting attendees hit on topics and issues that weren’t addressed elsewhere? This open format allows everyone to speak their minds and see where the conversation flows.
Moderator: Tammy Koolbeck (Iowa State Center)
Silent Auction & Raffle prizes available for pick-up.
All items must be claimed by 5:00 p.m.
Each EVMC member will receive a ticket to enjoy Canadian singer, Corey Hart, best known for his hit singles "Sunglasses at Night" and "Never Surrender." He has sold over 16 million records worldwide, scored nine US Billboard Top 40 hits and was recently inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Not far from Toronto, Niagara Falls' 150,000 gallons of water crashing down per second from heights of 176 feet is a spectacular sight to behold. The bone-rattling power and mist-cloaked majesty of the Horseshoe Falls aren't the only backdrop to this city of surprises. Venture on, and discover epic entertainment and casino excitement, wild water parks, big-brand outlet shopping, and perfectly manicured gardens and parks. Or don your poncho and head to the heart of the wonder aboard a Hornblower Niagara Cruise.