The Performing Arts industry is difficult at the best of times. These days, it is exponentially scarier. From what he had seen in newspapers through the years, some companies continue to cancel performances, some even the entirety of next season, lay off employees, and scramble to find alternative ways to reach audiences. Noah doesn’t consider himself as a newbie as far as business management is concerned. He started as a waiter in their food business until he reached his position now. It was something his adoptive father wanted him to experience to give him a different perspective, from being a small employee and rising up the ladder. His father believed it’s the best course of action if you want to better understand the people whom you will be managing in the future. It’s how he will become an effective leader someday. Noah understood what his father wanted to happen, it really helped him shape the person he is today. He knows how his employees’ minds work which usually helps him come up with win-win situations. It’s also where he learned to come up with a Plan B, C and D as issues continue to be so perilous. In an attempt to come up with backup plans to his backup plans, one of the major roadblocks has been - how will he let everyone know about the existence of his theatre and how it can help many people? Even though he has been a business owner for several years now, he still finds it difficult to explain what he does to people who have no exposure to or understanding of what goes behind the scenes of a live performance, or how a certain business works. To try and help answer that question, in addition to his own research and company-building, he had reached out to the people, companies and organizations who he’d met over the years and asked for their advice and help, and most importantly, their support. One of the people who responded to him was Hunter Bennett, an English National Quidditch player. Noah eagerly responded to the man who requested a meeting with him to discuss his cause personally. He’s willing to give the man a background of his plans. Not wanting to make it too formal, he chose to meet at the theatre bar. He wanted to give a good first impression so he went to the bar early. It’s just 7 o’clock in the evening, most of the patrons will go there by eight, giving them more time to talk before the place becomes crowded.

Tag: Hunter Bennett

Being in the National League is not only about competing, winning titles and receiving huge salaries. In addition, some of the players love to give back a certain amount of money to people who need it the most. Professional quidditch players live in one of the most sought after limelight the world has to offer, and there is no better experience than to take their time and money and give back to their communities. While some stars have their own charities, others simply work with community organizations through the league, teammates or cities they’re involved with. Hunter wasn’t that engaged as far as charitable initiatives are concerned yet although he’s interested to help if needed. One day, he received a letter from a certain Noah Peterson, asking him if he wanted to participate as a sponsor for the charity work he’s currently organizing which will help the aspiring and starting artist who doesn’t have the money and the means to advance their careers. He was told his theater helps those people and Noah even offers his place for other charity events. Hunter, of course, was interested to help but he wanted to know about the guy’s plans and his dreams. It won’t hurt to ask more questions, for his own benefits. Who knows he’ll be interested to participate in the event itself, aside from becoming a sponsor. With that in mind, he replied to the letter and requested for a meetup which the guy easily agreed to. He was invited to meet at his theater so he could show him the place as well. It’s actually a good idea so he sent his confirmation. The day of the meeting came and Hunter went there on time, dressed in his casual clothes. He was greeted by the staff at the door so Hunter mentioned the name he was looking for and was directed to the bar section. There was a guy waiting there when he arrived so he approached the man. “Noah Peterson?”

When taking up a charity running event of any sort, the key to getting sponsorship is knowing how to ask people for their support. It is not as simple as asking to borrow a tenner from a friend as in this case you may not know the person and you won't be giving the money back. Asking for sponsorship is harder than it sounds. Finding the right person to ask is the key, it may sound strange to some people but it really is important. People will respond well to people they know so relying on his own skills of persuasion is not enough. He needs to ask his friends and family to help drum up support for him. His bartender greeted him as he sat on the stool. He requested his usual and was provided with it within 10 seconds. As he took a gulp of his bottle, Noah’s mind started planning what he would say to Hunter Bennett.  Being able to give accurate information about how the money he is raising will help make a real difference to the sponsorship levels. His name was called and as his gaze settled on the familiar-looking man, Noah’s guest finally arrived. “That would be me.” He left the bottle on the bar counter and stood straight, his hand being offered to the man. “Pleasure to finally meet you Sir. It’s an honor.” He pointed at the other stool beside him. “Why don’t you take a seat first? Order anything you like on the menu—the sky's the limit tonight.”

Hunter didn’t expect the man he was meeting was way younger than him but he supposed age doesn’t matter in this time and age when it comes to charitable deeds. Anyone can help as long as you’re genuine and you have the means to carry your plans. In this case, Noah was asking for his help through sponsorships and this meeting will seal that deal if he will be satisfied with the cause he is working on. In the back of his mind, he’s not going to make it hard for the guy. As long as this is genuine charitable work, then he’s all in - be it helping and sponsoring, or even attending the event itself. The other guy offered his hand for a handshake, he returned it firmly, a smile on his lips. “The pleasure is all mine, Noah Peterson. Just call me Hunter, let’s not go into formalities.” At the offer, he took a seat and ordered a beer. A waiter also came to him and gave a menu. He was surprised that it offers a complete meal and not just finger foods. It was impressive for a theater bar. “That’s a very generous offer. You have a nice place.” He commented rather pleasantly while nodding his head. The waiter took note of his order which is basically a steak and veggie salad and gave the menu back to the waiter. “How did you come to own this place if you don’t mind me asking Noah?”