Live Event
SHOW CALLER
Clear. Calm. Cued
Calm on Comms
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I’m Barney Withers - a highly experienced freelance show caller, supporting live events across Australia and occasionally overseas. I’ve supported every type of event including product launches, activations, multi-day conferences, awards/fashion shows and live sports presentations (and more.)
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With over more than 25 years, I’ve worked with some of the industry’s leading technical directors, producers and production companies (as well as lessor known hero's of the industry.) Whether I’m stepping into an established team or jumping in last-minute, my goal is always the same: keep the crew confident, the show flowing and take the stress off your shoulders.
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What I Bring to the Booth
Technical Insight
With a strong background in AV, I understand how vision, audio, lighting and signal flow come together - and where things can potentially fall through the cracks. That means I often spot issues before they become problems on show day.
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Clients will sometimes loop me in early to review the kit list, just to make sure the essentials are covered (and that nothing unnecessary is being hired). I'm always happy to help simplify the process, keep things lean, and flag anything that might impact delivery during show.
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Clear Communication
Show calling is all about timing and clarity. I keep comms calm and efficient so operators know exactly what they need to do and when - even when plans shift on the fly.
Professionalism On and Off Comms
I’m "client friendly," as they say and I know how to represent your brand with professionalism and care. During pre-production, rehearsals and onsite delivery, it’s likely I’ll have direct contact with your client. ​Rest assured, I’ll represent your team seamlessly, communicate clearly and keep things moving with calm, confident energy.
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Trusted Execution
I act as the bridge between producers and the show crew - translating vision into action and making sure everyone stays aligned.
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Manner
I always bring a positive attitude and a smile. A calm, friendly presence can make all the difference in a high-pressure environment. I believe in keeping the energy steady, communication respectful and morale high - because when the tone behind the scenes is right, the show runs better for everyone
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What Does a Show Caller Do?
Meet me and see what I do
Venue spotlight: The Plaza Ballroom
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Tips from a Showcaller
What The Audience Doesn't hear
But wait ......there's more!
While show calling is my core focus, I’ve been in the industry for over 30 years and have a wide range of production skills to support you. Depending on the event and the team, I’m often asked to contribute in these other areas - some of these are included in my standard day rate, some of them are completely different roles.
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Some clients want a pure show caller; others value a bit of extra support across planning, tech or comms. Every show is different and so is every client - I’m happy to be as hands-on (or hands-off) as you need.
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Here are a few of the additional services I can offer:
- Stage Managing
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- Production Manager - managing schedules, suppliers, logistics, on-site execution, H&S, audience experience
- Pre-production Support (kit list review, cue sheet production etc..)​
- Voice Over's - recorded or delivered live
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- Off-site rehearsals (speakers and operators all benefit from these types of skeleton kit/crew rehearsals)
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- Speaker & talent training - From keynote presenters to nervous award recipients, I’m experienced in briefing talent onsite -keeping them calm, informed, and in sync with the show.​
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- Producer support (From helping with pitches with ideas, writing copy or just being very useful in a busy situation - I’m here to support you, not just the show. Sometimes it’s the small things that make the biggest difference.
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