Live Performance Australia appoints new CEO

Live Performance Australia (LPA), the peak body for Australia’s live performance industry, has appointed Eric Lassen as CEO.

Lassen brings experience as the former CEO of PayPal Australia and senior vice president and deputy general counsel for Live Nation Entertainment.

In addition to those roles, Lassen has served on several not-for-profit boards, including as the president of the Music Forward Foundation.

He succeeds Evelyn Richardson who announced in June that she would step down from her role at the end of the year after an 18-year tenure.

“Australia is home to some of the world’s best creative talent and arts and business leaders, and I’m keen to work alongside them in building and advocating for a sustainable, successful and growing industry which will excite, engage and entertain current and future generations of Australian and international audiences,” says Lassen.

“Australia is home to some of the world’s best creative talent and arts and business leaders, and I’m keen to work alongside them”

Live Performance Australia president Richard Evans added, “While audiences have returned in strong numbers since COVID, our Members are rebuilding and adapting to the post-pandemic environment, and dealing with a challenging economic and business environment, as well as managing policy and regulatory change.

“Eric’s demonstrated leadership experience and ability to successfully navigate complex business, policy and regulatory issues will ensure that LPA stays at the forefront in representing our Members’ best interests and supporting their growth and success.”

Evelyn Richardson adds: “The industry has grown strongly and evolved significantly over the past couple of decades, notwithstanding the disruption inflicted by the pandemic and other challenges along the way.

“It is driven by the passion and resilience of those who create, produce and present live performance. While the current economic and business climate continues to pose challenges, I have every confidence the industry has a bright future and that LPA will continue to play a leading role as its advocate and champion.”

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