LEA Jury Still Out

If the jury that decides the shortlist for Germany’s Live Entertainment Awards has made up its mind on this year’s nominees, it must be keeping its cards close to its chest for the time being.

The panel of 10 music journalists and industry experts headed by former Musikmarkt Live editor Martin Schrüfer held the second of its two scheduled selection meetings in Hamburg Jan. 19. The announcement of the shortlists usually comes at the end of the month.

Since 2006 the LEAs have mixed headline-making controversy with the charm of being a “family party” for the country’s music managers, agents, promoters, show producers and venues.

This year the event will be known as the PRG LEA, branded by the international event technology that’s come on board as a major sponsor. The other main supporters include Audi, ticket giant CTS Eventim, New Yorker magazine and Carlsberg brewers.

Last year’s winners included Marek Lieberberg (best tour promoter and best festival) Mario Mendrzycki of Triple M Management (best agent), and SAP Arena in Mannheim won best arena.

This year’s German Live Entertainment Awards are at Hamburg Color Line Arena April 15.