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Thu 31 Oct

Better together – A Q&A with Tibi Agency Founder Dina Bassile  

Creating inclusive spaces so everyone can share in the joy of live music

By Always Live

Dina Bassile is an access consultant for music and arts festivals and events, a passionate advocate and the founder of Tibi Agency – a leading booking agency in the entertainment industry that aims to empower and promote musicians with disabilities and chronic illness.  

We chatted to Dina about Tibi’s vital work making live music more accessible, and how a little more conversation and a little more action can lead to more inclusive spaces for everyone.   

1. Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself and about Tibi Agency? 

I'm Dina, the founder of Tibi Agency. We represent artists with lived experiences, ensuring they have a platform where their artistry is valued and showcased. Tibi Agency was born out of a need to diversify the creative industry by bringing more lived experience representation to lineups and events. Our mission is to bridge the gap between artists and promoters who are looking for inclusive and diverse acts. 

 

2. What inspired you to start Tibi Agency? 

Tibi Agency was inspired by ongoing conversations we had with promoters and festival/event bookers who were looking for artists with lived experiences. Simultaneously, artists with lived experiences expressed a need for representation by an agency that truly understood and supported them. We saw a clear market need to help diversify lineups and wanted to create a platform that supports and promotes artists with lived experiences. 

 

3. What are some highlights of Tibi’s first year? 

Our first year has been filled with incredible moments. Signing all our talented artists was definitely a major highlight! Our artists have played some amazing shows, including a showcase at the Australian Open and performances at Mordi Fest, St Kilda Fest, Groove Tunes and Moomba. We’re also proud to share that both R.em.edy and Saint Ergo were nominated for Music Victoria awards, with Saint Ergo taking home a win! These achievements are a testament to the hard work and talent of our artists. 

(re.em.edy)

4. What are your hopes for the future of Tibi Agency? 

For the future, we hope to continue growing our roster and providing more opportunities for artists with lived experiences. We want to see our artists on even bigger lineups, performing at major events. Additionally, we want to keep fostering an inclusive environment within the music industry where artists feel supported and celebrated for their artistry. 

 

5. Do you have any advice for bands/promoters/venues/festivals who want to make live music more accessible? 

Making live music accessible for artists involves open communication, a commitment to diversifying lineups by including artists with disabilities and ensuring that access riders are part of your planning process. Accessibility isn’t as daunting as it seems—start by talking to the disabled community to understand their needs and implement simple, effective changes. Creating an inclusive environment benefits everyone and enriches the live music experience. 

 

6. Tell us a little bit about Tibi’s first birthday bash at Persa and who is playing. 

We’re so excited to celebrate Tibi’s 1st Birthday at PERSA on Saturday, November 23rd! And yes, there’ll be cake! 🎂 It’s a free event with live music from some fantastic acts—R.em.edy, Mathilde Anne, Saint Ergo, and SAMMM. While the event is free, we’re encouraging donations to help us keep supporting musicians and ensuring creativity knows no barriers.  

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