The Show Went On!: Business of Live Entertainment Panel Recap!
By: Mary Amoroso
Hey Everyone! It’s your Cooper Leibner Fellow, Mary Amoroso! Let’s talk about how AMAZING our first panel of the spring 2024 season was! I mean, seriously, big high-fives to our incredible host BRIC and panelists—Saidah Blount, Executive Director, Celebrate Brooklyn!, BRIC; Patricia Cruz, Executive Director, Harlem Stage; Ariel Palitz, Managing Director, Hospitality & Intergovernmental Relations, Oaktree Solutions; Gwynne Wardrop, Executive Director, Cultural Events & Experiences, The New York Times; and moderator Nikki A. Bethel, President & CEO, Emma Bowen Foundation! But guess what made it even more amazing? All the jaw-dropping questions YOU brought to the table! We've got so much love for our community, and spending the night with you, soaking up wisdom from live entertainment gurus, was an absolute blast!
Now, we get it—life moves fast, especially for you media mavens with resumes to conquer, interviews to ace, and those early call times. So, I'll keep it short and sweet, delivering the juiciest advice nuggets from the panel. And hey, if you find yourself with a bit of downtime, catch the FULL panel on Facebook or Instagram!
Nikki A Bethel: CLOSED MOUTHS DON’T GET FED
Here's the deal: If you don't ask for what you want, how on earth do you expect to make those dreams a reality? Nikki drove home the point that you are your ultimate cheerleader. It's all about being proactive, knowing exactly where you want to go, and taking those bold steps to get there!
Saidah Blount: TAKE FAILURE AS A LEARNING OPPORTUNITY
At the ripe age of 27, Saidah couldn't even imagine being fired, but life threw her a curveball, and she found herself in the world of consulting for some seriously amazing folks. Fast forward, she's now rocking it at BRIC, all smiles and contentment. She'll tell you, the downs in your journey are just as crucial as the ups—lessons and connections, people!
Ariel Palitz: YOU HAVE TO DO WHAT YOU LOVE
Ariel's strong sense of public spirit is unmistakable, highlighting her genuine passion and dedication to her work. It's crucial to discover your purpose and find ways to contribute to the greater good. If you're drawn to social events, consider what unique qualities you bring. Are you an organized thinker, a music enthusiast, or well-connected in the fashion scene? Whether you're a skilled bartender or have other passions, align them with the benefit of everyone involved. Remember, carry two toolboxes—one for work and one for self-care. Even when transitioning into government Ariel’s focus was on protecting, preserving, and supporting venues, artists, and workers facing challenges.
It was an absolute honor to have our amazing panelists, our fantastic moderator, and each and every one of YOU join us for an evening filled with deep thoughts, connection, and heaps of inspiration. Hoping you left with a renewed sense of hope for the media industry and a "bring it on" attitude ready for whatever opportunities come your way! And guess what? More FREE events are on the horizon this season, courtesy of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment! Brace yourselves, because we're just getting started!
