At a time when the live events industry is being reshaped by technology, talent pressures and the need for collaboration, PSP Darts Masters has returned not simply as an industry social, but as a demonstration of where events are heading.
Hosted at PSP’s headquarters in Kings Norton, Birmingham, the 2025 edition marked more than a day of darts. It became a gathering point for agencies, suppliers and production specialists to experience ideas, technology and each other, while celebrating PSP’s 25th year in the industry.
Described as PSP’s take on Alexandra Palace, ‘The Tech Tavern’ – PSP’s HQ, was transformed into an arena environment. Attendees entered through an LED tunnel, competed on a stage backed by a 19-metre ROE LED wall, and were surrounded by lighting designed to mirror the scale and energy of live productions.
But the technology was only part of the story.
PSP Darts Masters was built around the people who make live events happen. Freelancers, agency teams, suppliers and production partners came together in a setting that encouraged conversation, idea-sharing and collaboration, rather than pitches or panels.
Over 100 people from teams across the industry, including Top Banana, Emota, GES, Spiro, The Collective and others, took part, supported by a network of suppliers including Crewsaders, Five Star, CES, Concept Furniture International, Flow Design and Build, Yardbirds, Birmingham Brewing Company, Aurora and SSL.
One of the moments was a showcase from Arbor Studios, who presented Potamus, an interactive, AI-driven content platform that hints at how audience participation could evolve in live experiences. Designed to generate rolling, music responsive visuals or delegate content in real time, Potamus demonstrated how creative freedom and technology can combine to create moments at events.
The event also reflected PSP’s commitment to collaboration through its involvement in the AV Alliance, enabling the business to share ideas and discover technologies from partners around the world.
While darts and energy ran throughout the day, the underlying purpose was clear. PSP Darts Masters is about creating space for the industry to come together, test ideas, celebrate the craft and reconnect with why live events matter.
As the sector continues to evolve, events like this are becoming platforms for connection, experimentation and progress.
David Woodcock, managing director, said: “The PSP Darts Masters is a fantastic way for us to bring down the curtain on what has been an amazing 25th year. We get the chance to push the boundaries of production and showcase new technology and ideas, whilst having fun and celebrating with our clients, suppliers and the team. We are incredibly lucky to have the support from so many freelancers and suppliers to make this event happen.”
