Beth Brash, BA

Beth Brash shares her fond memories of studying Film and Theatre, and the challenges and triumphs of leading Visa Wellington on a Plate (WOAP).

Alumna Beth Brash is proud of her time at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, with her study eventually leading her down a vibrant and exciting career path. She tells us of her fond memories studying Film and Theatre, the challenges and triumphs of leading one of the largest food festivals in the Southern Hemisphere, Visa Wellington on a Plate (WOAP), and the best things about living in our city.

What did you study and why did you choose to study at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington?

I studied a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Film and Theatre, graduating in 2004. I grew up in Levin, so Wellington meant it was far enough I had to move out of home, but close enough I still go home every now and then for a home cooked meal.

How would you describe your student experience? What are your memorable moments?

I loved my time at Victoria University. I had a very close-knit group of friends, but I think that happens naturally when you do theatre classes. You’re there late at night working on shows, there are often quite physical and intimate classes, and you become friends very quickly. One of the tutors offered free yoga classes twice a week, it was great fun! I was up at the Kelburn campus just a few months ago for David O’Donnell’s final lecture, and it was so wonderful to be back there, I have so many fond memories.

How have your studies helped you in your career journey?

I realised not that long ago that my favourite paper, THEA301 Company, really set me up for my current career. All working together to put on a show—thinking about logistics, lighting, entertainment, it’s essentially event management! Before WOAP, I ran Beervana for three years (also run by The Wellington Culinary Events Trust), and that is one big theatre show with beer! In fact, the current Beervana Manager Ryan McArthur, also went to VUW and studied theatre one year before me.

You now head up Visa Wellington on a Plate, what is that like? What do you enjoy most about your job?

It’s a great job! I love the variety and having to think on my feet, and I love the relationships with all the restaurant owners. I feel like some days I’m a professional eater, other days I’m a therapist, or dealing with crisis management. I was diagnosed with ADHD eight years ago, after my first year running Beervana, and the fast-paced nature, big deadlines, and need for quick problem-solving in these events fit perfectly with my neurodivergent brain.

What have been your career highlights, and any challenges?

My career highlight has probably also been my greatest challenge—I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. Because of that, I didn’t end up on a straight and narrow career path. I was always volunteering, and getting involved with things that interested me, which ultimately has led to great opportunities. I feel as though for the 20 years since I graduated, instead of having a defined career path, I’ve been following the light—and it’s meant I’ve ended up in an unconventional job that I love.

You mentioned you are a proud Vic alum, what makes you still feel connected to the University?

I can see it from my apartment window! It’s so exciting seeing the influx of students each year and so many of them end up working in hospitality so it’s a lovely symbiotic relationship.

How would you describe Wellington? What would you say to students considering moving here?

You can’t rely on the weather, so we have to make our own fun here. For some that is our thriving live music scene, for others it’s theatre or film, and of course, our drag scene is unparalleled. For me, it’s our amazing craft beer bars and breweries. It’s so easy to find your community here.

What advice would you give prospective students?

Get in touch with people who are doing something you admire and you’re passionate about. Be willing to help out, maybe volunteer your help because so often, the time will come when they need to hire someone and you’ve already proven your passion and willingness to learn. They know you and like you as a person, and that counts for so much.

What are your interests/passions outside of work?

I love either getting out into nature for walks, and we have amazing foraging in Wellington. I love going to Shut Up & Dance, a not very serious dance class. I dabble in pottery.

Tell us about some of your favourite foodie spots in Wellington? (or the inside word on WOAP this year!)

There are so many ways to get involved in the festival. My personal favourites are the ticketed events as these are once in a lifetime foodie experiences. Better get in quick though as there are a lot of events that have sold out. Pop-ups are a great way to go along to try something a little out of the ordinary—like Capitol restaurant’s entirely Portuguese menu, or Plonk’s menu that is inspired by food from books, TV and movies.

I also love the craziness that is Burger Wellington, which sees almost 200 restaurants across the greater Wellington region putting on burgers that span from pretty wild and out there, to classic burgers for the purists. There’s truly something for everyone!