With just 12 days to go until Futures Forum x LIVE: The Soapbox Sessions, we want to give you a closer look at what the day has in store. With limited places remaining, click here to secure yours now.
As previously announced, this essential seminar and networking event for young and emerging live music execs will take place on Tuesday 17 September at 229 London, between 2:30 – 7pm.
The afternoon will comprise six Soapbox Sessions on festivals, venues, workforce, touring, sustainability and government – designed to give attendees the latest developments in these critical sectors. Here’s your detailed rundown…
14:30–15:00 – Arrivals, refreshments and hellos
15:10–15:25 – Yasmin Galletti, We Are The Fair, LIVE Festivals
With the UK’s 2024 festival season drawing to a close, Yasmin will weigh up the summer calendar and give an early outlook for 2025. This session will address topical issues such as the impact of organising costs on ticket prices, delivering a safe event, and meeting sustainability goals.
15:25–15:40 – John Drury, OVO Arena Wembley, LIVE Venues
Wembley Arena’s VP and GM will conduct a health check of the market, from grassroots music venues (GMVs) to arenas and stadiums. Here, John will discuss the implications of the Parliamentary Select Committee report, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill and the government’s plan to tackle ticket touting.
15:40–15:55 – Charisse Beaumont, Black Lives in Music, LIVE Workforce
How do we better support our vital freelance workers? What opportunities are opened up by Labour’s plans for Skills England and a revised skills levy? And how do we make our industry more inclusive for all? These are the kinds of pressing matters that will be addressed by LIVE Workforce chair Charisse Beaumont.
15:55–16:10 – Quick refreshments and toilet break
16:10–16:25 – Craig Stanley, Marshall Arts, LIVE Touring
Craig will give the lowdown on touring under the current arrangements and consider solutions for challenges around haulage, carnets and cabotage and merch commission. What improvements are needed to the logistics of inbound/outbound touring? And what opportunities do we have with the new government? Find out in this session.
16:25–16:40 – Carol Scott, Tait, LIVE Green
Sustainability stalwart Carol will give an update on the UK industry’s progress towards a greener future. What are the wins we should be celebrating and what are the pitfalls we should be wary of? In this session, she’ll also discuss the work that is being done on sustainability clauses and a green rider, and point to supporting resources available through LIVE.
16:40–16:55 – Jon Collins, LIVE, Government
With a new government in power, Jon will provide a crucial overview of the sector’s standing in the eyes of Labour. How can the live industry build awareness with the cabinet and align our objectives with theirs? What is the government’s plan for EU touring, ticket touting and VAT on concert and festival tickets? Learn the answers to these questions in this timely session.
17:00–19:00 – Complimentary networking drinks
