RCP London Events welcomed more than 400 attendees for the fifth edition of the Audio Academy Festival on 1st October 2026.
The event brought together leading figures from across the audio industry to share ideas about the future of the sector and showcase the breadth of the UK’s thriving audio industry, with conversations and experiences spanning radio, podcasting, audio storytelling and emerging technology. The festival featured a packed programme across four stages, alongside opportunities for attendees to connect directly with industry leaders.
A major highlight was the launch of the new Audible adaptation of Dracula, featuring Jonathan Bailey and Ella Purnell, with the production presented in RCP London Events’ Dorchester Library which was transformed into a dedicated Dolby Stage for the occasion.
The festival also placed a strong emphasis on professional development, with a series of 1:1 sessions designed to mentor, advise and inspire audio professionals, providing attendees with direct access to experienced commissioners, decision-makers and industry specialists.
Among the headline conversations was BBC Radio 1 presenter Greg James, who was interviewed by Jeremiah Asiamah of BBC Radio 1, offering attendees an insight into his career and experiences in broadcasting. Greg James was among a wide-ranging programme of speakers from across the audio industry, with the 2026 line-up also featuring senior figures from the BBC, Bauer Media, Audible, Dolby and other leading organisations.
Technology and innovation were also central to the event. Working with Motion Mapping and the RCP London Events’ in-house AV and Media Services teams, the festival created an innovative and interactive way for attendees to engage with sponsors, with the experience showcased in the RCP’s Osler and Long Rooms spaces. The festival was supported by sponsors including Beano Brain, PRS, Arqiva, BBC Sounds and RCS, bringing together organisations from across the audio, broadcasting and technology landscape.
The event utilised the whole RCP venue, with its distinctive spaces providing different settings throughout the festival. RCP London Events’ head of commercial events, Natacha Allen, said: “The Audio Academy Festival is a fantastic example of how our venue can bring the audio industry together in a way that feels both engaging and distinctive. It was great to see the venue transformed across the day, with our spaces being used for everything from live sessions and conversations to immersive audio experiences. We’re delighted to have hosted the festival for a fifth year and look forward to continuing to support events that bring new ideas and people together.”
