Social Media: Meet Erin Robertson
Photo: Darian Wong
Erin Robertson (she/her/hers) comes to the Vancouver community from the Sunshine Coast. In recent months, Erin has been with MascallDance consulting on Social Media Marketing. She brings a strong grasp of the digital landscape a great sense of humour and a musician’s sensibilities to MascallDance.
Erin talks with Susan McKenzie
How might you describe MascallDance?
A very creative collective driven by a passionate team of talented dancers and choreographers.
As you've come to see MascallDance and its work over the past months, - is it different from your first impression?
I wasn't super familiar with Mascall Dance, but had heard the name, being in the arts community over the years. So I came in with a fairly clean slate and no expectations. Since the organization is run by very creative minds, there are always forward thinking and boundary-pushing ideas on the forefront and that is exciting to be a part of.
How long have you been involved in social media? What elements of social media personally move and inspire you? What is social media's most significant limitation for you? for dance?
I have been working in social media for over 10 years now. I love the creativity of it - a wonderful balance of content creation, writing and connecting with various communities. I think the sky is the limit for social media and dance, but it is consistency, resourcefulness and making things happen to capture content - regardless of the budget - that can cause barriers for some small organizations.
You've studied dance - has that influenced your work with us? What do you think it has given you?
Yes I grew up in an artistic family and started dancing when I was young, mainly training and performing in ballet and musical theatre, as I am also a singer. I would say my experience being on a stage and knowing how a production works from start to finish has helped inform me in this role.
We know that your mom is an accomplished professional in the field of advertising. What's the best advice she has given you?
My mom is a great inspiration for me and has taught me so much. Overall, she has always given me a lot of confidence in my creativity and abilities. She was a woman working in a male-dominated industry (real estate marketing) running a company through the 80's, 90's and 2000's. So, I think just seeing as an example of a strong woman, leading others and following her dreams, while raising a family, was very inspiring and motivating.
Will you share a bit about your own art practice - as a songwriter, singer?
Yes, I have been writing, singing and playing guitar since I was 16. I started out doing small talent shows and competitions in my small town, as well as training in music. Then I went onto music school in Los Angeles, and began gigging with a band and releasing my own music. It has been quite a journey so far!
Photo: Vern Minard Photography
What's on your horizon?
I am moving on to a new role in Digital Marketing for a music company after working with Mascall Dance.
What's the funniest thing that has ever happened to you as a social media manager?
I have seen some pretty funny comments come in on social media over the years with clients. None that I can share unfortunately (top secret!) but it is always interesting to see!
What's inspiring you recently?
I actually have been getting a lot of inspiration lately from TikTok. I have discovered so many great artists there, such as Noah Kahan and Flora Rose. It is great to see music artists really shine there and find their voice/audience.
Give us an example of a design/campaign you've done that you love, and why you see it that way.