Dave Gaydon has joined the Aviva Arena as live programming director, effective immediately.
Gaydon arrives from Live Nation and will report to YTL Live and Aviva Arena CEO Andrew Billingham.
His most recent role saw him serve as part of Live Nation’s outdoor promotions team, working on shows including South Facing Festival and the Colchester Castle Summer Series.
It’s not every day you get to join a team as the venue is built before your very eyes and I am thrilled to be part of that
Dave Gaydon, Aviva Arena
Gaydon previously spent nine years as head of music at The Roundhouse in London, where he booked over 1,500 shows and events including BBC Electric Proms, iTunes Festival and Mercury Awards.
He later formed a consultancy working with LW Theatres, which saw him head up programming for Cheltenham Jazz Festival.
We’re bringing together a team with the expertise, experience and imagination to deliver a venue that can completely transform the live events landscape in the West of England
Andrew Billingham, Aviva Arena
Andrew Billingham said: “We’re bringing together a team with the expertise, experience and imagination to deliver a venue that can completely transform the live events landscape in the West of England for both fans and artists. Dave has an impeccable track record, and having him join our team will help us create a distinctive calendar that combines the world’s biggest touring music artists with comedy, sport and entertainment.”
Miles Leonard, non-executive director YTL Live and Aviva Arena, added: “Great arenas are defined by the shows they attract and ultimately by what they mean to artists and audiences. Dave’s attitude and energy perfectly matches what we are working to do with the arena and the wider YTL Live entertainment complex.”
Dave Gaydon commented: “What excites me is starting with a very clear ambition but also the freedom to build a dynamic programme. We want to become an essential stop on major touring schedules serving this part of the UK in a way it never has been before. It’s not every day you get to join a team as the venue is built before your very eyes and I am thrilled to be part of that.”
Pictured above L-R: Miles Leonard, Dave Gaydon and Andrew Billingham
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