Is using words to influence others always suspect? What if it’s for a good cause? The next Milking Stool event will be held at the Kangaroo Valley Hall on July 3rd. We look at the worlds of an advertising creative, a political speechwriter, and an advocate working to end HIV/AIDS. Are they so different … or is it in the eye of the beholder?
From Socrates to Adolf Hitler, humans have wielded words to delight, teach, seduce and manipulate their audience. Nelson Mandela’s “I am prepared to die” still moves us; The Gettysburg Address still rings true. But so does Orwell’s dictum that political speech is often simply a smokescreen to “justify the unjustifiable”. As for advertising, while previous generations had their fingers burnt by the Marlboro Man or were motivated to “Just Do It”, millennials have apparently become largely immune to the $774 billion spent on ads last year.
Our guests – Ben Welsh, Martin McKenzie Murray and Associate Professor Darryl O’Donnell – talk about their experiences inside the world of ads, AIDS and politics – what they love, what drives them to despair and where they see it all going.
The Milking Stool is an evening of complete relaxation in the company of fascinating speakers and of people, like you, who enjoy exploring ideas. The Milking Stool offers three ticket options. The first option is the interview session plus a sit-down dinner with the speakers. This month’s chef will be Nick Gardner, our own Michelin-trained chef from Hampden Deli. The second option is interviews with a mezze plate by local chef Katrina Eden of Caterina Catering. The final option is to join us just the interviews. Even if you’re not eating, the bar will be open for those who want to deconstruct the evening over a drink or two.
The Milking Stool is also pleased to announce our new ticketing partner, Humanitix. They are a wonderful Australian charity that donates 100% of their ticketing profits to fund education for disadvantaged kids. The other great news is you can now use your Dine & Discover vouchers to attend Kangaroo Valley’s next Milking Stool event, PR, Propaganda and Persuasion on July 3rd. Tickets available from www.milkingstool.org
