Take a first look inside Leeds' major new revamped music venue TESTBED

As TESTBED, Leeds' premier music venue, prepares to reopen its doors after a major overhaul, excitement is palpable among music enthusiasts. The brainchild of founders Laura Wellington and James Abbott-Donnelly, TESTBED has carved out a reputation as a unique, forward-thinking space since its opening in 2021. With a revamped layout and cutting-edge amenities, the venue is poised to take the city's music scene. But what does this mean for the people behind the scenes, and what can we expect from this revamped music haven?

TESTBED's transformation is nothing short of remarkable. From its original 10,000 square feet to an expansive 23,000 square feet, the venue now boasts an impressive 2,500-capacity crowd. The addition of a 5,000 square feet mezzanine level, an upstairs bar, and a balcony view overlooking the main dance floor has significantly enhanced the overall experience. The custom-built stage allows for an immersive 360-degree crowd setup, redefining the way fans interact with their favorite artists. It's clear that TESTBED's owners have prioritized innovation, ensuring that this revamped venue stays ahead of the curve.

One of the most significant upgrades to be implemented at TESTBED is the installation of a custom-built L-Acoustics L2 system, providing festival-grade audio clarity. This cutting-edge technology promises to revolutionize the sound experience, allowing fans to fully immerse themselves in the music. Additionally, the venue will feature a massive 8m x 4m high-res LED video wall and a custom LED ceiling display, further enhancing the visual spectacle. It's a sensory experience like no other, and music enthusiasts can't wait to witness it firsthand.

TESTBED has already established itself as a haven for emerging talent, with partnerships with AMAAD, promoters behind Junction 2 Festival, LWE events, and Ironworks, and live music programmer Ghostwriter. These collaborations have brought the likes of Little Simz, Yungblud, and Geese to the venue, showcasing its commitment to nurturing fresh talent. With plans for a Room 2 reveal in 2027, it's clear that TESTBED is dedicated to providing a platform for up-and-coming artists to flourish.

As TESTBED prepares to reopen its doors, it's clear that the city's music scene is on the cusp of a new era. With its revamped layout, cutting-edge amenities, and commitment to emerging talent, this venue is poised to take center stage. I predict that TESTBED will become a hotspot for music enthusiasts, with sold-out shows and a thriving community of artists and fans alike. As Laura Wellington and James Abbott-Donnelly continue to push the boundaries of innovation, one thing is certain: TESTBED's resurgence will leave a lasting impact on Leeds' vibrant music scene.

With a reputation as a forward-thinking venue, TESTBED's rebirth promises to bring a fresh wave of energy to Leeds' music scene. As the city's music enthusiasts eagerly await the venue's reopening, one thing is clear: TESTBED's resurgence will be the catalyst for a new era of music innovation in Leeds. With its commitment to emerging talent, cutting-edge amenities, and a passion for redefining the music experience, TESTBED is set to take the city.