VMA Digital Series looks at the effects of COVID-19 on the entertainment industry

As part of their ongoing digital series, the Venue Management Association (VMA) will this week (27th May, 11:15 am) discuss “The effects of COVID-19 on the entertainment Industry” when they bring together Nine Network Entertainment Editor, Richard Wilkins alongside Dr. David Heslop, Associate Professor and researcher at UNSW (currently advising the NRL’s Project Apollo), interviewed by Tim Worton, Group Director - Arenas at ASM Global (Asia Pacific).

Key discussion themes will include Wilkins’ firsthand experience of contracting COVD-19 to his take on how entertainers and promoters are responding to the crisis. While Heslop will speak on the current state of infection in Australia, New Zealand, the US and Europe, with discussions around the science; and what might lie ahead for the entertainment industry.

This week’s panel members:

Richard Wilkins
With a career of 30+ years since launching MTV Australia in 1987 Wilkins continues to interview the biggest names of stage and screen all over the world; hosts major national and global events and is a regular on the red carpet, interviewing stars at the biggest award shows and gala events.

Dr David Heslop
Dr Heslop is an Occupational and Environmental Physician, General Practitioner, has a Master of Public Health, and is an Associate Professor at the University of NSW. He specialises in epidemiology, emergency medicine, infectious diseases and has extensive experience in advising the military on emergency medicine in high risk environments. He also consulted on the National Rugby League’s Project Apollo to help restart the 2020 NRL season.

Tim Worton
Worton is Group Director of Arenas for ASM Global, the world’s largest venue management company. A 28 year veteran of the industry, he has oversight of Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Brisbane Entertainment Centre, RAC Arena in Perth and Newcastle Entertainment Centre and works with ASM Global’s convention centres on live entertainment. He has served the VMA as a Councillor and President and as an instructor, committee member and Chairman of VMS and Dean of LI.

The VMA Digital Series is presented by the VMA’s Venue Management School and features many of the industry leading instructors along with special guests, who explore key topics, on their road to recovery, in the venue industry.

Delivered each week on Wednesdays, commencing 11.15AM (AEST), each 45 minute weekly session will explore a new topic for discussion and provide members with an opportunity for live Q&A with our panellists.

For more information go to www.vma.org.au