
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!
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…
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Steve Sayer is senior vice president and general manager of The O2, leading the world’s most popular live entertainment venue. Under his management, The O2 delivered its third consecutive record-breaking year in 2025, hosting 239 performances at the 22,500-capacity arena and continuing to set the benchmark for innovation, fan experience, and sustainability.
As SVP & general manager, Steve, supported by his senior leadership team, is responsible for venue strategy and driving commercial growth, while ensuring The O2 remains a world-class destination. He is deeply committed to reinvesting in the venue to ensure it continually delivers a best-in-class experience for performers, partners and fans.
Steve joined The O2 in 2014 as commercial director, working closely with the AEG international leadership team to deliver major capital improvement projects, unlock new revenue streams, and enhance the destination.
In January 2026, Steve was appointed the new chair of the National Arenas Association. As chair, Steve will represent the interests of arenas across the UK. His priorities include working closely with the LIVE Association as it shapes the future strategy for live music and driving further engagement with government to influence policy and legislation impacting the sector.
Prior to joining The O2, Steve was operations director for Manchester City Football Club and oversaw match day and major event operations.
Outside of work, Steve is a big electronic music fan, passionate about live music, and a keen cyclist. He enjoys spending time with friends and family.
We use essential cookies to analyse our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies.