In 2027, ILMC sets off on its most challenging edition yet: to race around the live music world in just 80 hours. From 23-26 February, over 1,700 of the industry’s leading pioneers and trailblazers will gather in London for the start of an unforgettable race as the touring party crosses borders and seeks out new markets, routes and opportunities.
Competitors from 80 countries will make their way to ILMC’s own Reform Club – The Royal Lancaster Hotel – from where the most spectacular journey will begin. So polish your compass and pack your trunk, because ILMC 39 is going to be the most global edition yet. But with tickets for the journey strictly limited, for Fogg’s sake, don’t leave it too late to sign up!
4 DAYS
80+ MARKETS
180+ SPEAKERS
1700+ ATTENDEES
The Conference Itinerary
Now in its 39th year, ILMC is the international live music industry’s largest and most respected conference. And with the world of live entertainment under one roof, every conversation leads somewhere…Â
A World of Connections
With over 1,700 professionals attending from 80 markets, you’ll depart with your passport stamped and full of new contacts. From speed meetings and socials, to dedicated networking and private meeting space, ILMC is all about connections.
Onboard Leisure Activities
In between conference sessions and five-star lunches, you can relax with a back massage, take a brisk morning jog around Hyde Park, or get noticed by fellow travellers at the karaoke.
ILMC Central
In 2027, panel sessions move to the lower ground Westbourne Suite and a brand-new central meeting point – ILMC Central – opens up on the ground floor. It’s a new focal point for the whole event with more meeting space than ever.
Latam & Asian Stopovers
ILMC 39 will stop off at various live music destinations around the world with two dedicated tracks for 2027: Latam Live and Asia Live. Each programme features two dedicated panels, a hosted lunch, speed meetings, and curated networking with professionals from the region.
Private Cabins for Hire
New for 2027, voyagers can book their own private meeting spaces and cabins during ILMC, allowing for privacy and quiet away from the hubbub of the main areas. Bookable by the hour, or by the half day, get in touch for details.
New Friday Programme & Departure Lounge
In recognising how many of our members want to fly home for the weekend, Friday at ILMC has a new look with a full morning of specialist sessions before a relaxed and informal ‘Departure Lounge’ farewell brunch that completes our journey.
The Arthur Awards 2027
The Arthur Awards is relocating to a brand-new luxurious destination in 2027, the Hilton Park Lane, where we expect to welcome over 600 of live entertainment’s biggest names to a glamorous evening of five-star food and wines, and a major industry celebration.
Ashish Hemrajani
James Blackall
Production Manager
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The O2
James joined The O2 in 2023 as Production Supervisor when he was just 18yrs old. He has quickly risen through the ranks to become Deputy Production Manager thanks to his operational excellence, technical expertise, and relentless commitment to delivering a best-in-class experience for the hundreds of artists and performers who come to the venue each year.
In the past 12 months alone, James has earned key certifications including BS7909, IOSH Managing Safely, and become an AutoCAD Certified Professional—while simultaneously leading major production efforts for world-class events like League of Legends World Championships, F1 75 Live, and Justin Timberlake, Sabrina Carpenter, Usher, Paul McCartney, Tyler The Creator, Linkin Park and more. He oversees the electrical and rigging contracts for The O2 Arena and has implemented new processes and efficiencies for maintenance and inspection, raising safety and quality standards across the board.
Beyond his core role, James serves as Vice Chair of the AEV Electrics Technical Working Group, contributes to industry reports, attends NAA training groups, and is actively pursuing further involvement in advisory groups. He’s also committed to developing others, mentoring new production staff, and supporting the leadership of both internal venue production teams and external crews.
From playing a pivotal role in designing bespoke, one-of-a-kind global shows to supporting major world tours and driving industry best practices, James is a rising leader who is helping to shape the future of live event production.
ILMC 39 Partners
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