'What's the buzz?" - Publicist, Ian Phipps




STAGES with Peter Eyers show

Summary: Oscar Wilde once said, "There is only one thing in the world worse than being talked about, and that is not being talked about." Though he was advising 'Dorian Gray', Wilde could quite easily have been instructing the pursuit of the Publicist. An essential tool in the promotion and marketing of events and entertainment is the publicity machine; making us aware, engaged and informed. For over 30 years, Ian Phipps has worked in a variety of capacities communicating a product. He has served stints as Publicity Manager at SBS Television, Marketing Manager of Riverside Theatres Parramatta, Publicity and Promotions Manager of the Australian Film, Television and Radio School; and since 2009 navigation of his own promotions and publicity house, IP Publicity. It is a role demanding enormous energy, strategy and an awareness of all platforms and how they might best service the client. Large scale productions and high profile artists benefit from Ian's management of media communications, and creative flair, in guiding the public awareness. Publicity and Promotions are another intriguing facet of our Arts industry. Ian provides great insight to his process and shares some delightful tales from his extensive experience as a Publicist working with creatives, media and the audience.