Who are you?
My name is Veda Best, I am a rigger who is scared of heights. So I’m a ‘groundie’ – I send chain motors into the roof, read plans, sling and fly truss.
Describe the work you do
I work as a rigger/crew member predominately at two venues in Sydney. I had no idea what rigging even was when I first started. Up until recently, I had only worked as a rigger at one venue with the same people so I am still very much learning especially when it comes to new venues.
What led you to your current work?
I went to university to study theatre production in hopes of doing lighting or stage management for theatre. While working at my first job in the events industry as an operations crew member I realised that there were more roles in the industry than I thought. I wanted to progress more into the industry and a rigging job popped up so I thought I would see where it went.
What are you working on now or about to start work on?
I am currently travelling overseas so not working on anything! But when I get back I will be back at ‘home’ in my regular venues mainly on corporate events and concerts.
What are the good things about your job?
The good thing about the job is that it’s something different every day and it requires me to use my brain in a variety of ways – it’s not sitting in front of a computer. Seeing events come together at the end of the day is a bonus too.
What are the worse things about your job?
The worst thing about the job is the overnight turn-around shifts. I have been known to be very grumpy with no sleep.
What, so far, has been your career highlight?
Working on large-scale concerts is a career highlight. Plus, getting some insider performer goss is always fun!
What is the most blatant example of sexism you have encountered at work?
Before working as a rigger, I was a crew member at a concert venue – while moving a couch with another woman (one of the simple jobs) someone remarked that “you should get the boys to do that.” Unconscious sexism like being called sweetheart, darling or love I find very patronising.
What advice would you give to any woman thinking of a career in the entertainment industry?
My advice would be to ask for help, don’t be afraid to admit that you don’t know things, take responsibility for mistakes and find ways of doing things that work for you. My biggest fear for a long time was that I would be seen as weak or stupid – my strengths differ from being able to lift a piece of truss above my head or being able to move a chain motor by myself.
What is your career goal?
My career goal is to learn as much as possible in the industry and work my way up. A full-time gig at the moment would be ideal but further on maybe a venue manager.
