Beat the Ageism: Senior Raver Awa­reness

‘Beat the Ageism’ – both a call to action and an invitation. Even though raves are seen by many as a space of freedom, ecstasy and belonging, many people experience subtle or overt exclusion as they get older: when visiting clubs, booking gigs, backstage or as part of the working scene. But how deeply rooted is ageism in the techno cosmos?

In a keynote speech, sociologist and scene expert Konrad Lauten will present the results of a nationwide survey on age discrimination in the electronic music scene for the first time. The voices of older ravers paint a nuanced picture between invisibility, empowerment and a longing for a more inclusive party culture. 

Robert Eysoldt, creative strategist and age diversity activist, provides context and shows how ageism affects all age groups, which clichés shape the image of ageing, and how demographic change is further intensifying these dynamics.

In the subsequent panel discussion, experts from the music industry will discuss practical experience, barriers and new ways to create a cross-generational scene, whether on the dance floor, in the line-up or in booking. The focus will not only be on awareness, but also on concrete solutions: Which working models, codes of conduct or club formats promote genuine participation? What can younger and older scene members learn from each other?
With techno's status as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, there is also a growing responsibility to make the scene sustainable for the future – diverse, accessible and connecting generations.