The Future of Touring-A Blend Of Old And New

The Future of Touring: A Blend of Old and NewArticle written by: Henry Bordeaux

Recently, I attended two of the concert industry’s most significant conferences: The Conference at Rock Lititz in Lititz, Pennsylvania, and the Live Production Summit in Palm Springs, California. While conferences were integral to my early career, this was my first since taking a mental health sabbatical. Returning evoked a mix of anxiety and excitement, but ultimately provided insight into the industry’s evolution post-COVID.

At Rock Lititz, I sat on the top floor in a big open room in the brand-new Academy of Live Technology campus, which is pioneering an accredited educational system for the live events industry. Listening to Andrea Shirk, President and CEO of Rock Lititz, discuss how The Beatles’ performance at Shea Stadium marked the beginning of the modern concert era—transitioning shows from small venues to massive stadiums—was enlightening.

The Conference Live at Rock Litiz

Reflecting on my start in 2002, the industry was predominantly an ‘old boys’ club’ led by rock ‘n’ roll pioneers. This realization underscored the industry’s relative youth and its rapid growth. Touring the campus and observing the junior class complete their final exam—building an art installation in a state-of-the-art black box studio using the latest equipment from 4Wall Entertainment—was mind-blowing. It highlighted the formalization of education and career pathways for new professionals.

These conferences showcased a clear transition: the longstanding leaders of the industry alongside a surge of younger professionals emerging from colleges and technical programs. Over the past decade, such programs have proliferated globally, promoting concert production as a viable career and skilled trade, thereby reshaping and democratizing the industry.​​​​​​​

“passion, when invested in the right individuals, becomes infectious, instilling hope for the future of concert touring”

Having navigated a significant generational gap during my early career, mentoring younger professionals has been profoundly rewarding. Notably, Alex Prince, whom I mentored for years, forged his path as a Tour Manager and ambassador for the Future Forward Program, Established by the President of LPS Chris Musgrave, and the Future Forward program introduced over forty students from various college programs nationwide. I mentored these young professionals alongside my colleagues for three days and realized my heart was filled with the same joy and dedication they had for this business. This experience reinforced how passion, when invested in the right individuals, becomes infectious, instilling hope for the future of concert touring. Recognized twice in my career as a Young Gun Tour Manager of the Year and honored with the Parnelli NextGen Award, I was part of the rising wave of touring professionals. However, attending these conferences at age 41 made me realize I’m no longer the ‘young gun.’ Now, I feel both a responsibility and an opportunity to bridge the gap between the older and newer generations. In many ways, I embody the best of both worlds—carrying the wisdom of the old guard while embracing technological advancements and new perspectives shaping the industry’s future.

“Fresh eyes drive change, while wisdom ensures stability”

Balancing Fresh Perspectives and Experience

The live events and touring industry thrives on this duality. Newer professionals eagerly embrace technology, rethink traditional methods, and push creative boundaries. Meanwhile, seasoned veterans possess the experience to anticipate challenges, manage large-scale logistics, and navigate artist relationships with foresight honed over time.

To advance the industry sustainably and innovatively, we must recognize that both perspectives are invaluable and necessary. Fresh eyes drive change, while wisdom ensures stability.

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Navigating the Multigenerational Concert Industry in 2025

As we dive into a new year, consider these strategies to embrace this dynamic:

1. Value Both PerspectivesView generational differences as opportunities. Younger professionals offer agility and tech fluency, while experienced professionals provide strategic insight. The best teams actively seek both viewpoints.
2. Encourage Cross-Generational CollaborationBuild teams that blend new and seasoned professionals. Pair young tour coordinators with experienced production managers or allow new stage designers to collaborate with legacy lighting designers.
3. Foster a Culture of Adaptation and RespectAvoid dismissing new ideas as inexperience or viewing traditional approaches as outdated. Cultivate an environment where ideas can be challenged, and experience is valued.
4. Utilize Technology for Knowledge TransferBridge generational knowledge gaps through documentation and tech-based collaboration. Use digital platforms to share best practices, create databases of past tours, and build a knowledge-sharing culture.
5. Implement Reciprocal MentorshipSenior professionals can offer guidance on industry practices and long-term career strategies, while younger professionals can provide insights into emerging trends and modern fan engagement strategies. Mentorship should be a two-way exchange.
6. Leverage Conferences for DialogueIndustry events are excellent for networking and serve as spaces for generational dialogue. Panels and roundtables should focus on the intersection of innovation and experience, facilitating learning between new and seasoned professionals.
7. Recognize Lifecycle DynamicsUnderstand that wisdom grows over time while fresh perspectives may wane. Recognizing this natural progression means knowing when to step into leadership roles and when to make space for emerging voices, maintaining relevance and longevity in the industry.

The Future of Touring: A Blend of Old and New

In 2025, the concert industry will continue evolving rapidly. The most successful tours, productions, and companies will integrate multiple generations into their workflows. The industry’s future belongs to those who blend fresh ideas with seasoned wisdom.

Reflecting on my career and future work with Roadmap Tour Solutions, I see this as an opportunity. Our industry is built on the collective knowledge and efforts of those who came before us, combined with the new vision of those stepping in today. Let’s make 2025 a year where we embrace that balance and advance the industry together.

About

My name is Henry Bordeaux

As a seasoned Tour Manager with over two decades in the live concert industry, I have had the privilege of managing global tours for renowned artists. The best part is paying forward what I’ve learned to others.