Bread And Butter

Newcastle Herald

Tuesday March 4, 2008

GR

BREAD AND BUTTER

NATHAN ZERVOS ROCK PROMOTER

What do you do? I'm the owner of Ruffneck Promotions, a small booking agency dedicated to venues and outdoor events with a focus on event management, marketing and artist bookings.

What does your job entail? I do entertainment bookings for venues such as the Cambridge Hotel, Panthers Newcastle and Hunter Valley Brewery. And I do site management for events like Groovin' The Moo and Evebay.

What do you enjoy most about your job? I'm a control freak, so I guess the organising and planning of big events and shows is what I love most. Having to troubleshoot issues that may arise also tends to get the adrenalin moving. But most of all I enjoy hearing that people are having a great time and can't wait for the next show.

How did you go about getting into this industry? I returned home from a four-year stint travelling around the world in 2001, and a number of my friends were complaining that there were limited venues for original local bands to play in. I knew of a room that operated when I was at school (Newcastle Leagues Club) so I approached the manager and asked if I could run shows in the room once a month. He said yes, and from there I used that experience as on-the-job training to develop contacts and skills to help further my career in the industry.

Are there any downsides? Late nights, always on call, consistently in venues (lots of beer meetings), and I guess when you see the mechanics or behind-the-scenes work that goes into a show it tends to take the mystery away.

© 2008 Newcastle Herald

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