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BDKV introduces Best Of Live Award
May8
The German live entertainment sector will see the introduction of a new industry accolade this year
The German live entertainment sector will see the introduction of a new industry accolade this year: the Best Of Live Award (BOLA).
Initiated by the Federal Association of the Concert and Event Industry (BDKV), the award aims to recognize outstanding achievements behind the scenes of concerts, festivals, and live shows.
The Best Of Live Award follows the discontinuation of the Live Entertainment Award (LEA), which was last presented in 2022. According to the organizers, BOLA was developed to fill that gap and provide a platform for honoring the work of professionals who contribute significantly to the success of live events.
The award process is designed to be participatory: BDKV member companies can submit nominations starting August 1, 2025.
A jury made up of industry professionals and BDKV representatives will then select nominees, after which BDKV members will vote to determine the winners.
The award ceremony is scheduled for December 9, 2025, during the BDKV’s annual member assembly at the Hotel Palace in Berlin. The event will be hosted by presenters Jeannine Michaelsen and Jan van Weyde.
"The Best Of Live Award is the prize we`ve all been hoping for! We celebrate the people behind the scenes who make the live experience possible with passion and professionalism. This award brings our community together—in the spotlight and full of appreciation," says Sonia Simmenauer , President of the BDKV and Chair of the BOLA Jury.
"With the Best Of Live Award, we are creating a platform for excellence, innovation, and collaboration—while strengthening the industry`s network. A particular challenge was ensuring that all segments of our broad industry could be represented and have their say. Accordingly, the categories are broadly defined; one half of the jury represents all of our departments, and the other half is made up of experts from around us. And the final vote by our members ultimately makes this award a truly collaborative project," emphasizes Johannes Everke , Managing Director of the BDKV.
Categories for the 2025 Best Of Live Award:
1. Meisterwerk – Recognizing classical events that set new standards in 2024/2025
2. Rockstar – For standout events in the rock and pop genres
3. Word Up – For notable performances in comedy and spoken word
4. Magic Moment – For particularly impactful show or entertainment formats
5. Companion – For artist managers contributing to long-term career development
6. Avantgarde – For organizers or agencies showcasing innovation and creativity
7. Impact – Highlighting efforts toward sustainable event practices
8. Encore – For the most memorable live experience of the year
9. Die Legende – Lifetime achievement award for contributions to the industry
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