Veteran Toronto entertainer Jody Litvack began his professional career in the entertainment industry as a DJ in the 90s and then as a host for Much Music in the early 2000s. Over the next decade, he quickly became one of Toronto’s most recognized live event entertainers and MCs.
In 2009 he launched Jet Entertainment, an event production and multimedia company that has delivered a wide variety of special events with world-class entertainment.
According to Litvack, entertainment is a central aspect of any successful event. Whether it’s a live performance, a DJ set, or a keynote speaker, the content needs to be engaging and memorable. Event producers need to curate the right mix of entertainment and ensure that it fits with the event’s theme and purpose.
A successful event is about having a clear vision and goals, attention to detail, engaging content and entertainment, and attendee experience.
“Ultimately, the success of an entertainment event is measured by the attendee experience. Event producers need to focus on creating an immersive and memorable experience for attendees. From the moment they arrive at the event to the moment they leave, every aspect of the experience needs to be carefully crafted to create a positive impression and leave attendees wanting more,” he says.
After almost 30 years in the business, Litvack remains passionate about the events industry and enjoys bringing people together and creating memorable experiences.
“I enjoy the challenge of taking an idea or concept and turning it into a fully realized event that exceeds expectations. From the planning and logistics to the execution and post-event analysis, every stage of the event prod
uction process is exciting and rewarding,” he says. “Building relationships and collaborating with others to bring an event to life is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.”
Litvack was named the 2022 Canadian Event Professional of the Year at the Canadian Events Awards.
What advice/tips would you offer others entering the industry?
Gain experience: The best way to learn about event production is to get hands-on experience. Start by volunteering at local events or interning with a production company to learn the ropes.
Build your network: Networking is key in the events industry. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with others on social media. Building relationships can help you find new opportunities and collaborate with others in the field.
Develop strong organizational and communication skills: Event production requires strong organizational and communication skills. Make sure to hone these skills by practicing project management and effective communication techniques.
Be flexible: Events are often unpredictable, and things can change at a moment’s notice. Being flexible and adaptable is key to succeeding in the industry.
Stay up-to-date with industry trends: The events industry is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. Attend conferences, read industry publications, and take courses to keep your skills and knowledge current.
Have a strong work ethic: Event production can be demanding, with long hours and tight deadlines. Having a strong work ethic and a willingness to go the extra mile can set you apart and help you succeed in the industry.
Stay passionate and creative: Finally, stay passionate and creative in your work. The events industry is all about creating memorable experiences and having a passion for what you do. A creative mindset can help you stand out and produce truly outstanding events.
