Talking point
These female leaders share their hopes and predictions for the future of entertainment
Aurelie de Troyer, senior vice president, Audible. In the future, audio entertainment will… Consist of more ambitious productions, with world-class partners both in front of and behind the microphone. I’d like to see more recognition for audiobooks and podcasts as springboards for magic on the big screen. My woman to watch is… Imriel Morgan, founder of marketing agency Content is Queen. She is responsible for the UK’s Women’s Podcast Festival.
Ade Rawcliffe, group director of diversity and inclusion, ITVX. The future of streaming will… Be simpler, as we’re going to want to get all our favourite content without having to subscribe to lots of different streaming services. My women to watch are… Sara Collins, author of The Confessions Of Frannie Langton, and Abby Ajayi, writer of Riches. Both shows are coming to ITVX later this year.
Caroline Giddings, director, Isle of Wight Festival. The future of festivals will… Be much more environmentally conscious. Things such as recycling pledges, reaching carbon-neutral status and implementing policies to eliminate single-use plastic on-site are just some examples of what festivals are doing. My woman to watch is… Claire Armstrong, an event manager for Festival Republic. She’s dynamic and driven.
Safiya Lambie-Knight, head of music UK & Ireland, Spotify. The future of music streaming will… Become about spaces where global culture is made, shared and celebrated. Platforms such as Spotify will continue to change the landscape of music consumption. My women to watch are… Davina Merchant, A&R manager at Downtown Music; DJ and presenter Henrie; and Jacqueline Eyewe, marketing director 0207 Def Jam. They’re each shaking up the scene in their own way.
Philippa Simpson, director of design, estate and public programme, V&A Museum. In the future, exhibitions will… Encourage encounters between visitors as much as between the visitor and the object. The desire to experience something socially will be critical. My woman to watch is… The architect Tara Gbolade. She leads in sustainability and is a committee member for the Paradigm Network, which champions Black and Asian representation in the construction industry.
Sarah Hopwood, managing director, Glyndebourne. In the future, opera will… Not take place solel
