The UK Musical Theatre Conference is set to take place at Soho Theatre Walthamstow on 15 April 2026, marking its debut at the east London venue. The event will gather industry professionals to explore pressing challenges and opportunities within the musical theatre sector.

The UK Musical Theatre Conference returns in 2026, with its first staging at Soho Theatre Walthamstow on Wednesday 15 April. The event will bring together a diverse group of musical theatre professionals for panels, presentations, and case studies addressing key issues facing the sector today.

Discussions will cover a broad range of topics including creating musicals for the global market, the evolution of dance in new musicals, data-driven analysis of audience trends, and musical theatre’s role in addressing the climate crisis. Other focal points will include digital creative visibility, Black and Global Majority perspectives, the impact of artificial intelligence, and embedding accessibility in new musical development.

Co-produced by the Musical Theatre Network and Mercury Musical Developments, the conference alternates biennially with their BEAM showcase events. This edition follows the 2024 conference held at the Royal Court Theatre, which organisers described as the best-attended so far.

Several speakers have been confirmed, featuring representatives from Bristol Old Vic, Dundee Rep, the Lowry, and Ramps on the Moon, alongside producers, academics, composers, and writers. Notable contributors include Nancy Medina, Andrew Panton, Matt Eames, Michèle Taylor, Rafia Hussain, David Brownlee, Ameena Hamid, Emily Lunnon, Sarah K Whitfield, Dan Rebellato, Sally Ann Gritton, Lesley Gannon, Caitlyn Burt, Amir Shoenfeld, and Alex Bulmer.

Inspired by the response to the “Provocations: New ideas for a new era?” session at the 2024 conference, the 2026 programme will open with three provocations followed by breakout discussions. These sessions are designed to encourage delegates to explore potential responses to the sector’s ongoing challenges.

Accessibility has been expanded for the 2026 conference, with more free and reduced-rate tickets for students and freelancers. Additional measures include live captioning for all sessions and the provision of a quiet space within the venue.

The conference is supported by sector partners and sponsored by Birmingham Hippodrome, Bill Kenwright Limited, Concord Theatricals, Grindrod Burton Casting, James Steel Productions, John Good, Kenny Wax Ltd, Music Theatre International, and Theatrical Rights Worldwide.

Tickets for the UK Musical Theatre Conference 2026 are currently available for purchase.