PLASA Focus Leeds returns to the Royal Armouries from May 13–14, 2025, with its seminar program now available. Designed to address the current needs and future aspirations of the live event technology sector, this year’s program examines critical topics related to audio, sustainability, AI...
Over the course of two days, visitors gain insights from technical pioneers, creative leaders, and forward-thinking organizations. All sessions are free to attend and take place on Level 1 of the Royal Armouries, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Audio innovation in the spotlight
The 2025 program places a strong emphasis on professional audio, featuring highlights such as an exclusive conversation with FOH sound engineer Robb Allan, whose work spans from Radiohead to Massive Attack.
Funktion One and d&b audiotechnik bring cutting-edge perspectives on loudspeaker technologies and audio systems.
Joyned offers a forward-looking session on networked audio, while an open panel debates whether today's roadies should become tomorrow's network engineers.
Driving sustainability through practice and technology
As the events sector sharpens its focus on climate impact, several sessions explore sustainable strategies and innovations.
Royal Ballet & Opera shares how they collaborate with suppliers to embed sustainability values throughout the production chain.
Robe hosts a session cutting through the greenwash by examining sustainability from the end user’s perspective, while Funktion One tackles electroacoustic energy efficiency in speaker design.
Pearce Hire presents a compelling case study on powering festivals with green hydrogen, highlighting new possibilities for cleaner energy in live events.
Supporting the next generation
Future talent takes center stage in 2025 with a wide range of content for young professionals, students, and educators.
The Power of Events looks at how early outreach is key to maintaining the industry talent pipeline, while Production Futures maps out possible career paths, including internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship programs.
Soulsound returns with valuable networking opportunities for freelancers, and the PLASA Student Forum, led by Phil Ward, gathers voices from the University of Derby and Nottingham Trent University for an open dialogue on industry readiness.
AI takes the stage
PLASA Focus Leeds 2025 features two sessions dedicated to artificial intelligence and its growing relevance to live events. The first session explores how AI is boosting creativity, supporting roles, and streamlining workflows. The second session welcomes Dr. Sacha Krstulović, who debunks misconceptions and highlights positive AI applications in entertainment technology.
Hands-on demos and training
In addition to the main seminar program, PLASA Focus Leeds 2025 offers a variety of interactive training opportunities and live demonstrations:
- Bury Theatre Audio Demos by KV2 – Experience award-winning audio in cinema-style seating as KV2 showcases a broader range of systems in a setting that reflects real-world performance environments.
- Crest Audio by Peavey Demos (taking place at the Holiday Inn Express, next to the New Dock Hall) – In a European exclusive and its PLASA Leeds debut, Peavey presents the Crest Audio CPL+ Series of passive loudspeakers for install and live applications, with technical presentations throughout both days.
- Lighting Training with ChamSys (taking place at the Holiday Inn Express, next to the New Dock Hall) – Take advantage of free pro-level lighting training, featuring a comprehensive program covering the latest ChamSys consoles and software.
- Outdoor Audio Demos by SOWA – Returning to the outdoor courtyard, SOWA delivers live DJ sessions and personalized demos, unveiling three new product ranges: The Live Series, The Tour Series, and SOWA Extras.
Take a break in the wellbeing hub
Visitors can unwind in the Wellbeing Hub, a safe and quiet space designed to promote relaxation and mental wellbeing. Whether it’s reading, mindful coloring, stress-relief toys, or guided meditation through noise-cancelling headphones, the Hub is a peaceful retreat away from the show floor. A mental health and neurodiversity specialist is also available for confidential discussions throughout the event.
And much more…
Beyond these main topics, the program includes sessions on lighting, wellbeing, freelance finance, stage automation, pyrotechnics, business strategy, and more, making this one of the most diverse seminar line-ups in PLASA Focus history.
With major challenges and exciting innovations shaping this industry, the 2025 seminar program has been curated to inform, inspire, and spark discussion. We’re proud to offer this content for free and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the sector to Leeds this May, says Sophie Atkinson, Head of Events at PLASA.
