Playlist Live 2016 brings YouTube celebrities to Orlando this month

In just a little over two weeks, Playlist Live 2016 kicks off in Orlando, and a limited number of tickets still are available. Registration for the YouTube celebrity meet-ups opened on Saturday, however, and many were filled to capacity in just minutes. Dan and Phil, former BBC Radio 1 hosts, and llama-lover Twaimz (“The Llama Song”) were among the most popular creators hosting meet-ups.

My 13-year-old son, who is going to Playlist Live for the second year, said trying to get into the popular meet-ups is worse than registering for a runDisney race! I didn’t think anything could produce that same level of angst, but he was at his computer ready to go at the appointed time and still did not get his first choice. (He is happy with his alternate meet-ups, though.)

Playlist Live started six years ago in Orlando as a way for attendees to learn more about video production from experienced creators. It has grown to include meet-ups with popular stars, Q&As and short performances from featured guests, musical performances and a dance party, and an inflatable joust and interactive games. The three-day convention takes place at the Orlando World Center Marriott.

And there’s a definite Disney connection — other than the proximity to Walt Disney World. Maker Studios, a multi-channel network and YouTube video supplier, was purchased by The Walt Disney Company two years ago. In December 2015, Maker Studios became a subsidiary of the Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media division. Maker Studios is a sponsor of the convention, and one of its co-founders, Shay Carl Butler, has his own popular family video blog, The Shaytards.

The Shaytards, some of my son’s favorite YouTubers, will again be making appearances at Playlist Live 2016. Other popular creators from Maker Studios who will be at the convention are Bratayley, a family of video bloggers; Ed Bassmaster, who is known for videos of his pranks; and Bart Baker, a creator of musical paradies.

For many of today’s teens and tweens, social media stars are the celebrities they most want to meet, and Playlist Live gives them the opportunity to do just that. Parents again will have their own lounge, much like similar facilities at rock concerts, so they can be on site if their children need them, but they’re not tagging along with their cool offspring.

Playlist Live 2016 takes place April 22-24. A Standard Pass, which is good for full access on Saturday and Sunday, costs $136.99. A Business Pass includes the Saturday and Sunday programming, as well as Friday for the Business Day and Insight Track, and is $236.99. (The Business Day and Insight Track are small-group sessions led by popular YouTube personalities and designed to teach attendees about starting their own You Tube channels.) A Parent Pass, with access to the parent lounge, is $135.99. Prices were lower when tickets were first released and have increased as the conference has approached.

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