A Hub for Innovation in Live Entertainment
CoSTAR Live Lab is part of a £75.6 million national network of laboratories dedicated to keeping the UK at the forefront of the creative industries. The Wakefield-based lab will explore immersive, multisensory, and interactive technologies, support startups, and provide industry-leading training.

A Thriving Partnership
Led by the University of York, the initiative brings together Production Park, Screen Yorkshire, Wakefield Council, Vodafone, and York & North Yorkshire Combined Authority. Funded by UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Infrastructure Fund and delivered by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), CoSTAR Live Lab is a landmark investment in the future of live entertainment.
Speaking on the launch, Production Park CEO Lee Brooks said:

“At Production Park, we are delighted to be a key partner in the launch of the UK’s largest creative lab, CoSTAR Live Lab, located at the heart of our thriving campus—an internationally renowned hub for live entertainment. For years, we’ve proudly hosted some of the world’s biggest acts, supporting their large-scale productions.

CoSTAR Live Lab is a perfect addition to our creative industries ecosystem, embodying a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and artistic vision. This initiative aligns seamlessly with our mission to nurture talent, foster innovation, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in live events and entertainment.”

A Spectacular Launch Event
The grand opening on 6 February 2025 was attended by industry leaders, policymakers, and creatives, including West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin. The event was headlined by world-renowned musician Jamie Cullum, who performed a special interactive set featuring immersive technology developed by Bonza, a company conducting R&D within the Live Lab.

Speaking at the launch, Jamie Cullum highlighted the importance of such initiatives:

“Things like this are really expanding what the creative industries are able to do and should mean that more people have the opportunity to experience music and the joy of playing music. You don’t get new talents coming through unless you have opportunities like this—bringing musicians and creatives together to experiment with performance, rehearsal, and practice.”
Professor Gavin Kearney, Co-Director of Live Lab said:

“By connecting cutting-edge research with true industry need, we aim to create new opportunities for innovation and growth. This facility is of strategic importance not only to the creative industries in the North of England but also to the wider UK, reinforcing our position as a leader in creative technologies.”

Professor Helena Daffern, Co-Director of Live Lab, added: “Live Lab exemplifies the transformative potential at the intersection of technology and the arts. By bridging these domains, we are creating a space where creativity and innovation can thrive, driving forward new ways to experience and engage with live performance.

“This facility underscores our commitment to supporting the creative industries and advancing the boundaries of what is possible.”

Watch this space – the future of live entertainment starts here.

The Live Lab at Production Park represents a bold step forward for the UK’s live entertainment industry. With its unmatched facilities, strategic partnerships, and commitment to innovation, it is set to become a global leader in shaping the future of live experiences.

Photography: Alex Holland, University of York.