MPTS, the major UK-based event for the media, production and technology communities, has announced its first wave of speakers, with more than 130 industry experts and thought leaders already confirmed ahead of the show’s return to The Grand Hall, Olympia London, on 13-14 May.
The 2026 line-up includes leading voices from the BBC, Sky, ITV, Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, All3Media, Banijay Rights, Little Dot Studios, Ofcom and the Creative Diversity Network, among many others, and promises two “unmissable days” for anyone working across the industry.
“Marking its 10th anniversary, the MPTS 2026 edition is shaping up to be the most ambitious yet, with all sessions free to attend,” a press release said.
“Across eight theatres, the 2026 programme covers the full breadth of the modern media landscape, from broadcast technology and post-production to the creator economy and artificial intelligence.
“Whether you are a seasoned industry professional or an emerging talent, the seminar programme offers the most valuable insight and experiences for everyone working across the industry at all levels.”
“We’re delighted to reveal our first wave of speakers for what promises to be a landmark edition of MPTS,” continued Charlotte Wheeler, director of MPTS.
“Reaching our 10th anniversary is a real milestone, and the programme reflects just how much the show has grown.
“We’re particularly proud that 47% of our confirmed speakers so far are female, demonstrating our commitment to representing the full breadth of talent across the industry. With more speakers still to be announced, we are looking forward to sharing what else is in store.”
Key information on the first wave of speakers – provided by MPTS – is available below.
Keynote Theatre at MPTS 2026: Behind the Scenes of Modern Media
At the heart of MPTS, the Keynote Theatre brings together some of the industry’s most influential voices for sessions that go behind the scenes of the productions and decisions shaping modern media. Designed to inspire and spark discussion, it offers practical insights, experience, and perspective from leaders guiding the next generation of media professionals.
Production Theatre Tackles Today’s Film and TV Challenges
The Production Theatre, meanwhile, will tackle the practical realities and future of film and television production, bringing together producers, studio leaders, and production industry experts. The seminars will cover lighting and camera techniques, funding models, sustainability, and the evolving demands of the creator industry, including a special session from Warner Bros. Studios, Leavesden.
The Future of Production, Broadcast, Audio and AI Explored
The AI Media Zone examines how artificial intelligence is transforming every stage of the content lifecycle, from ideation and production to post and distribution. The Post Production Theatre explores evolving workflows, technologies, and the impact of AI on editing, VFX, and collaborative pipelines. The Broadcast Technology Theatre showcases the tools, infrastructure, and innovations driving next-generation broadcast operations. Meanwhile, the Audio Theatre highlights the craft, technology, and creativity shaping sound across film, TV, sport, podcasts, and immersive formats.
From the Creator Economy to the Cutting Edge
In addition, the new Creator Hub stage will bring together a dynamic mix of kit demonstrations and high-level discussions on how creators are building audiences, monetising content, and collaborating with brands in today’s fast growing digital landscape. The programme will also explore the growing influence of the creator economy and its relationship with traditional media, with conversations spanning social platforms, digital storytelling and the opportunities emerging across new formats.
Meanwhile, the SMPTE Media Technology Conference Europe moves onto the showfloor this year, connecting senior technical leaders, innovators, and decision-makers directly with the wider MPTS audience. Sessions will cover hybrid and cloud-based production, next-generation broadcast systems, and evolving distribution models, offering an expert technical perspective on the future of media and entertainment technology.
More information is available on the MPTS website.
