Organised Chaos: What I Learned Coordinating Secret Valley Festival

As a Sydney-based burlesque dancer and event manager, I’ve seen a lot of stages—but few quite as challenging (or rewarding) as Secret Valley Festival. In 2024 and 2025, I stepped into the role of Lead Performance Coordinator, managing over 15 artists across three stages during a four-day festival set in the heart of regional NSW.

From booking performers and organising travel to setting up green rooms and plotting lighting designs, I was the go-to person for all things talent and logistics. But in 2025, things didn’t quite go to plan. Wild weather rolled in, one stage faced a power failure, and we had to pivot—fast. I reshuffled the performance schedule, liaised with tech teams, and kept artists calm and supported. It was pressure-filled, unpredictable, and honestly? I loved every minute of it.

That experience reminded me why I’m so passionate about live entertainment—whether I’m performing at private parties as a burlesque artist or managing logistics for large-scale events. It’s the mix of creativity, precision, and people that lights me up. Event management isn’t just about planning—it’s about adapting, problem-solving, and making sure the audience never sees what went wrong behind the curtain.

Burlesque dancer Sydney for hire – let’s make your event unforgettable!

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