Welcome to the latest edition of Six Questions With..., a regular short and sharp interview with a live music figure. Email jhanley@nbmedia.com if you would like to take part or recommend someone for inclusion. 

This week's Q&A is with Mario Albuquerque, director of Brazil's open air sunset club, Laroc, which has huge parties lined-up for the first part of 2018, featuring DJs such as Armin van Buuren and Herman Cattaneo.

What was your first job in music?

I have been working in the electronic music industry since 2002. I started in a nightclub called Anzu working in a promotional team. I stayed there for eight years working in different areas, and from there and it give me a 360º view of the business. I left in 2010 when I was a artistic director from the club. After that I started working as a project manager for different companies until I was hired in 2013 for ID&T in Brazil where I produced festivals until opening Laroc.

How long have you been in your current role?

Since 2013 I was working with ID&T Brazil/Plusnetwork and I’m director of production, responsible for producing international projects in Brazil. I have worked with Laroc since 2015 when we started the groundworks and construction for the club.

What is your favourite thing about working in the live music industry?

Connecting with people from all over the world. There is nothing better to talk with different people/countries and exchange experiences and spread our message to the world.

What is the one thing you would like to change about the business?

Ego. Too much ego kill talents, and if we change it, it will be much better for the industry.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Producing two editions of Tomorrowland in Brazil.

What's the best gig you’ve ever been to?

Tomorrowland Brazil! At Laroc the best night was with Vintage Culture - national talents and strong artists.