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As new media consumption goes mainstream, so goes the geekfest; this week's Twiistup includes panels featuring the likes of Brooke Burke (of Wild on E! and Dancing with the Stars fame) discussing her new-found success as an online entrepreneur and Chamillionaire (he of the many mixtapes and much Patron) talking digital music.
Since 2007, Twiistup, has served as both a memorable party for the entrepreneurs and media savants and a matchmaking event for select SoCal startups and wide-eyed venture capitalists.
But this week Twiistup, now in it's sixth version, is expanding to add a day-and-a-half conference with top speakers to complement a night of open bar mingling.
"We're aiming to add an inspirational and innovation aspect that fits the LA community," said Twiistup producer Francisco Dao.
The expanded format, combined with reasonable ticket prices ($297 for the conference and party), has attracted ticket buyers from well beyond Los Angeles and Silicon Valley. "People are coming to this event from places like Belgium, so we're going to make sure everybody get a world-class experience at this event," said Dao.
LA's reputation as an innovative hub at the crux of new media and entertainment has been bolstered in recent years by a combination of venture capital investment and major studios and talent turning to the Web as a means of primary distribution.
Twiistup aims to present a look into the future, stacking panels with early stage investors (Brad Feld, Dave McClure) on top of interviews with top online entertainment entrepreneurs (David O. Sacks, Justin Kan of justin.tv, Ben Huh of icanhascheezburger. Chamillionaire and Quincy Jones III will discuss music and tech with Topspin's Ian Rogers) and discussions with content producers and marketers.
Check out the list of startups that have been selected as "showoffs" at Twiistup 6. From Bakespace to Streamy to Expense Bay, there will be something for everyone.
Twiistup 6 is Thursday and Friday July 30-31 at the Universal Hilton. Tickets are $297 for the whole she-bang or $75 for the Thursday night party only. Every Twiistup to date has sold out, so buy your tix in advance.
Twiistup 5 photo by Mike Macadaan via flickr.
