MAX Professional
Development

12:30-1:15 pm

Room: Cosmopolitan C/D

Presenting 101

Discover the art and science of orchestrating captivating experiences! Learn the fundamentals of venue operations, event coordination, and audience engagement. From curating shows to logistical mastery, this workshop empowers you with skills to reach new success in bringing the joys of performing arts to your unique community.

Joe Ferlo ǀ The Grand Oshkosh

Tanya Gertz ǀ Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

Room: Discovery

Agents & Managers 101

Navigate the dynamic world of artist touring, mastering logistics, promotion, and artist relations. From booking to sold-out shows, this workshop equips you with basic and essential skills to guide artists toward success in booking and touring.

Leah Keith ǀ Rhythm of the Arts

Jennifer Morris ǀ Siegel Artist Management

Room: Studio One

For Artist by Artists Touring 101

This workshop is your backstage pass to touring triumph. Learn Artist-to-Artist insights as seasoned touring artists share their secrets to self-managing tours. From booking and promotion to route planning, gain firsthand knowledge and strategic finesse to amplify your live performances and forge a sustainable, fulfilling touring journey.

Heather Massie ǀ HEDY! The Life & Inventions of Hedy Lemarr

Mr. Mojo  ǀ Mojo and the Bayou Gypsies

Joshua Kane ǀ Wild Baboo Productions

1:30-2:15 pm

Room: Discovery

AI Magic for Arts Marketing and Operations

Join us for an interactive, choose-your-own-adventure session tailored to your interests in AI for nonprofit arts marketing. Dive into a variety of topics, from building your own custom GPT app in Chat GPT and creating stunning AI images in Ideogram, to mastering AI project and time management. Discover how Engage Evolution leverages AI in everyday business operations and much more. Plus, all attendees can sign up to receive our exclusive custom prompts and step-by-step directions for continued learning and application.

Aaron Beatty ǀ Engage Evolution

Room: Cosmopolitan C/D

Fundraising 101

Fundraising 101 illuminates the path to sustainable support through donor engagement, grant writing, special events, and creating imaginative fundraising campaigns tailored to the arts sector and your organization’s vital mission. Join us to transform passion into sustainable resources for artistic excellence.

Laurel Canan ǀ Siegel Artist Management

Sean Wright ǀ The Grand Theater

Room: Studio One

Budgeting for Touring and Presenting

In this session, we balance art and fiscal responsibility as we delve into tour planning, venue expenses, and financial sustainability strategies. Learn to orchestrate successful tours or season curation while staying in financial tune as veteran colleagues guide participants toward financial mastery in the performing arts.

Tim Drake ǀ The Roots Agency

Amy Gosz ǀ Fox Cities Performing Arts Center

David Wannen ǀ New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players

2:15-3:45 pm

Room: Cosmopolitan C/D

An Interview with Veteran Colleagues

In this moderated session, revered performing arts veterans engage in a candid conversation on evolving industry landscapes, artistic evolution, and enduring passion for the work. Unearth golden insights from stage to management as these performing arts leaders reflect on their journey and offer invaluable perspectives.

Katie Miller ǀ There’s No Business Like Podcast Moderator 

Joi Brown ǀ Strathmore Hall Foundation, Inc.

Matt Greenhill ǀ FLi Artists

Eric Rogers ǀ Arts Place, Inc. (Retired)

Jerry Ross ǀ Harmony Artists

William Wood ǀ Macomb Center for Performing Arts

Martha Woods ǀ Jonathan Wentworth Associates

Room: Discovery

Presenting Dance Success Stories

Join your colleagues to learn more about their dance presenting success stories in these post-pandemic times! In the spirit of encouraging more dance presentations in the region, the selected examples will span presenter type, dance genre, and audiences. There will be time for you to share your own success stories as well as to ask questions and network. This session is inspired by the work of the Dance/USA Agents, Managers, Producers and Promoters Council (AMPP).

Steve Hoffman ǀ Norton Center, Centre College Moderator

Jared Duymovic ǀ Marcus Center for the Performing Arts

Jennifer Ross ǀ Walton Arts Center

Lee Strickland ǀ Houston Performing Arts

4:00-5:15 pm

Room: Sagamore Ballroom, Indiana Convention Center

New Colleagues Orientation

In this session, new colleagues will be introduced to the Midwest Arts XPO, learn the basics of how to navigate a booking conference, attend showcases, maximize networking opportunities, and connect with mentors. An Exhibit Hall Tour will take place on Tuesday at 12:30 pm just prior to the Exhibit Hall opening. The New Colleagues Orientation is sponsored by Illinois Presenters Network, Iowa Presenters Network and Wisconsin Presenters Network.

Laurel Canan ǀ MAX Mentorship Committee Chair

Kevin Maynard ǀ Illinois Presenters Network

Thomas Robbins ǀ Iowa Presenters Network

Jared Duymovic ǀ Wisconsin Presenters Network

Karen Kennedy ǀ NAPAMA

Tommy Hensel ǀ Heartland Performing Arts President

Jennifer Morris ǀ MAX Professional Development Co-Chair & Showcase Chair

4:15-5:30 pm

Room: Discovery

New Paradigms for the New Reality of the Performing Arts

In a panel discussion moderated by Mr. Mojo, topics will focus upon what we have to do, and what we already do differently today, to survive and prosper as Presenters, Artists, and Agents in the new economic realities we face. Identifying and adapting to new paradigms is the point and delivering useful solutions to our audience is our goal!

Mr. Mojo & Expert Panelists

9:00-10:15 am

Room: Cosmopolitan C/D

Season Curation

What affects the eye of the curator – thematic cohesion, diversity, audience engagement? Our panel will discuss how to shape a relevant slate of performances that captivate, challenge, and celebrate your unique communities. Leave this session ready to craft unforgettable experiences that will echo long after the final applause.

Steve Carignan ǀ University of Northern Iowa

Leslie Rodriguez ǀ Dominican University

Regina Ruhberg ǀ Washington Pavilion

Todd Wetzel ǀ Purdue Convocations

Room: Cosmopolitan B

Connecting the Dots in Block Booking

Is block booking dead? What is and is not working? This panel discussion gathers experts for a candid exploration. We will discuss strategies to unlock the synergy of shared bookings, cost efficiency, and expanded audiences. Navigate potential challenges and gain insights into effective coordination.

Bryan Zellmer ǀ Pennsylvania Presenters, Moderator

Tianna Conway ǀ Wisconsin Presenters Network

Kevin Maynard ǀ Illinois Presenters

Lynae Sanford ǀ Southwest Performing Arts Presenters

Room: Cosmopolitan A

What Does Sensory Inclusive Really Mean?

Over the last decade, our industry, as a whole, has been dancing around the idea of offering sensory-inclusive performances to reach specific populations in our communities. And after a decade, many of us still have questions, concerns, and confusion about what “sensory inclusive” really means. In this session, we will explore the evolution of these types of performances and the expanded audience they are designed to reach. We will discuss why they are important, who the audience is, why we need to standardize our language regarding these shows, and what qualities are necessary to identify a show as “sensory inclusive.”

Kevin Spencer ǀ Hocus Focus

Room: Discovery

Negotiation—No, Is the Second-Best Answer

Contract negotiation is a delicate dance. We all love to hear “yes” and move to contract but what happens when the real answer is “no?” In this session we will explore the myriad of ways “no” comes into play in the booking process. Learn how to navigate “no” honestly and respectfully, while strengthening your professional relationships and building toward future fruitful collaborations.

Tim Drake ǀ The Roots Agency

Tanya Gertz ǀ Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

Dan Kemer ǀ Center for the Performing Arts-Carmel & MOKB Presents-Indiana

Brian Luther ǀ Ames Center

10:30-11:45 am

Room: Sagamore Ballroom, Indiana Convention Center

Opening Keynote—Ben Cameron

Keynote is sponsored by NAPAMA (North American Performing Arts Managers and Agents)

12:30-1:00 pm

Room: Sagamore Ballroom, Indiana Convention Center

New Colleagues Exhibit Hall Tour

9:00 am-12:00 pm

Room: Convention Center, Sagamore Ballroom 3 & 4

Performing Arts for Youth Symposium & Showcase

The Performing Arts for Youth Symposium will feature a panel discussion on critical issues in the field, thematically specific small group conversations, networking with colleagues and a curated showcase. Topics will include artistic programming, commissioning new works, marketing to schools and families, and supporting artists in new and innovative ways. The 75-minute curated Performing Arts for Youth Showcase will consist of six 12-minute showcases and five 3-minute artist pitches during the transition between showcases.

Tara Bailey ǀ Bailiwick Booking Agency

Christine Cox ǀ C Squared Entertainment

Kevin Maynard ǀ Quad City Arts

Seth Soloway ǀ Spruce Peak Performance Center

9:00-10:15 am

Room: Discovery

Offers, Riders & Agreements…Oh My… Part I

Find the artistry in contracting while demystifying the contractual “dos and don’ts” in our industry by delving into the intricacies of contracts, technical riders and negotiation dynamics. Join us as we discuss the life cycle of an artist contract, and basic terminology empowering you to navigate your contracts with finesse and newfound skills. 

Tim Drake ǀ The Roots Agency

Dan Kemer ǀ Center for the Performing Arts-Carmel & MOKB Presents-Indiana

 Jeff Laramie ǀ NorthStar Artists/SRO Artists

Colleen Rogalski ǀ Genesee Theatre

Room: Cosmopolitan B

Broadway and Commercial Programming

Take a look behind the curtain to better understand the showbiz intricacies of Broadway and commercial programming. Explore production economics, licensing to audience dynamics. Learn to navigate the dazzling realm where art meets commerce, crafting the unforgettable experiences your audience craves.

Magaly Barone ǀ Columbia Artists Theatricals   

Jared Duymovic ǀ Marcus Performing Arts Center

Jaymi Gilmour ǀ Broadway & Beyond Theatricals

Eric Olmscheid ǀ Wharton Center for Performing Arts

Room: Cosmopolitan C/D

Presenting in Rural Communities

Ignite the arts where they matter most! Join this insightful discussion on keeping performing arts missions in step with the distinct rhythms of rural communities. Panelists will share innovative approaches to programming to foster deep community connections, while illuminating the unique challenges — and joys — of bringing our rural stages to life.

Lindsay Bauer ǀ Fairfield Arts & Convention Center

Shantel Dow ǀ Sheldon Theatre of Performing Arts

Andy & Allison McGuire ǀ George Daily Auditorium

Room: Studio One

Concrete Ways to Reduce the Environmental Impact of the Arts

The performing arts lead the way in improving communities, speaking up for equity, and bringing out the best in humans. At the same time, they are also important contributors to the climate and waste crises. This session, presented by Colombian musician Karin Stein, of the Artes Latinas consortium, will provide a quick summary of the climate crisis and the contribution of the arts to it, and provide practical ideas for actions that presenters and artists can take to make a tangible and much needed difference. Karin, who is a touring musician but has an advanced degree in biology, brings to this discussion 25 years of leading conservation work abroad, and 8 years as one of the national coordinators for EcoMadres, a program of the Environmental Defense Fund.

Karin Stein ǀ Artes Latinas and EcoMadres

10:30-11:45 am

Room: Discovery

Offers, Riders & Agreements…Oh My… Part II

Join us for Part II of this two-part presentation demystifying the contractual “dos and don’ts” in our industry by delving into the intricacies of contracts, technical riders and negotiation dynamics. We will discuss the life cycle of an artist contract, and basic terminology empowering you to navigate your contracts with finesse and newfound skills. 

Tim Drake ǀ The Roots Agency

Dan Kemer ǀ Center for the Performing Arts-Carmel & MOKB Presents-Indiana

Jeff Laramie ǀ NorthStar Artists/SRO Artists

Colleen Rogalski ǀ Genesee Theatre

Room: Studio One

NAPAMA Making Artistic Cents: Collaborative Marketing – How Agents & Artists Can Support Presenters

This year’s Making Artistic Cents explores the power of Collaborative Marketing in the live performing arts. Discover how artists, managers and agents can get involved with marketing strategies to support presenters in promoting your shows. This session will dive into topics from audience engagement to social media to new revenue streams through special programming! 

Moderator: Kevin Peters ǀ G.L. Berg Entertainment

Room: Cosmopolitan B

Regional and National Funding Opportunities

Get your questions answered! National and regional funders will be on hand to help you identify support for presenting performances and residencies in your communities. A must attend session to gather information for future planning.

Emma Bohmann ǀ Arts Midwest

Brandon Gryde ǀ National Endowment for the Arts

Christine Bial ǀ Mid-America Arts Alliance

Room: Cosmopolitan C/D

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Arts Professionals from the Inside Out

Dr. Zoleka Adams will conduct an experiential exercise with participants which allows them to look at diversity in a deeper and broader sense. This program aims to allow participants to connect to a sense of belonging based on current real time experiences and assists them in expanding their bandwidth in understanding and developing compassion for themselves as members of the human community. The goal is to understand Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from a deeper perspective rather than filling in the blanks for programming in the arts community.

Dr. Zoleka Adams

9:00-10:15 am

Room: Cosmopolitan C/D

An Introduction to NIVA and NITO

NIVA and NITO – The past, present and future of live performances in the independent music world for one special session! Learn about both organizations and how they are working to preserve the ecosystem of live entertainment.

Andre Perry ǀ Hancher Auditorium (NIVA)

Jack Randall ǀ Ted Kurland Agency (NITO)

Room: Discovery

The Art of the Split Deal

Split deals are becoming more and more commonplace in the touring industry, but many presenters and agents do not understand the various methods of creative deal making.  Learn from veterans in the industry the many ways to “cut a deal” that matches both your budget needs and touring outcomes.

Rich Corsi ǀ Columbus Association for the Performing Arts

Tim Drake ǀ The Roots Agency

Jeff Laramie ǀ SRO Artists/Northstar Artists

Room: Studio One

Ticketing Systems & Data Management

Ticketing Systems & Data Management demystifies the art of box office success. This session will address efficient ticketing solutions, data-driven insights, and attendee experiences. Learn to harness technology for seamless operations, strategic marketing and informed decision-making.

Janie Dickerson ǀ Spektrix

Kevin Maynard ǀ Quad City Arts

Nick Ronan ǀ Audience View

David Wannen ǀ New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players

Room: Cosmopolitan B

Presenting and Representing International Artists

This session is a must attend for those engaging in international touring or presenting international artists. From visa intricacies, cross-border logistics and cultural diplomacy you’ll learn to catalyze paperwork, timelines, and artistic aspirations, ensuring seamless international tours. In this time when cultural exchange is more important than ever, join these artsworkers as they speak about what they have learned representing and presenting international touring companies over the decades. What do they wish they’d known in advance? What are the joys and what are the pitfalls?

Sara Barasch ǀ IMG Artists

Laura Colby ǀ Elsie Management

Mark Jacobson ǀ University Musical Society/University of Michigan

Frank Page ǀ CWA Management

Todd Wetzel ǀ Purdue Convocations & Lectures

10:30 am-11:45 am

Room: Sagamore Ballroom, Indiana Convention Center

Closing Plenary: “Believing is Seeing” with Dr. Zoleka Adams

Dr. Zoleka Adams is a licensed Gestalt psychotherapist in private practice and coach/ consultant specializing in supporting organizations in their diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging initiatives. She has over twenty years of experience in designing and leading organizational retreats, each with experientially crafted exercises to deepen awareness of one’s intersectionality and cultural competence, implicit bias and areas of needed healing.