Awakenings, synonymous with techno innovation, outdid itself for its 27th anniversary with a three-part series at the Gashouder. Spanning over Easter weekend, this trio of events kicked off on Friday night, continued with a Saturday day show, and concluded with an explosive Saturday night finale. Each day brought its own flavor, its own atmosphere, but all shared the monumental production that Awakenings is revered for.
The heart of the Gashouder’s production was the awe-inspiring kinetic structure, a marvel of modern engineering. Suspended above the dance floor, it descended and ascended throughout the night, moving in harmony with the music, its movement making the vast industrial space feel personal, intimate. When combined with the lighting, each beam cutting through the darkness, and the legendary disco ball casting a sea of stars across the crowd, the production was nothing less than a techno temple.
The disco ball, a signature element of Awakenings, cast a dazzling array of lights over the crowd, creating a spectacle that’s become a hallmark of their production. The carefully timed fireworks, another signature of theirs, always mark a high point in the event, underscoring their commitment to an experience that’s always one step ahead, ensuring each visit is as thrilling as the last.
At the helm of the Awakenings anniversary celebrations, a roster of techno’s elite graced the decks across the three distinct events. Camelphat, Miss Monique, Kevin De Vries, Mind Against, Joseph Capriati, Pan-Pot, SPFDJ, and Future.666 — to name a few — each brought their unique energy to the Gashouder, showcasing Awakenings’ unerring ability to curate a lineup that encapsulates the very pulse of the techno scene.
But Awakenings is more than its lineup and production – it’s the vibe, the energy of the community that comes alive within the Gashouder’s walls. Over these three days, the venue became a melting pot of individuals from all walks of life, united by the rhythm and the shared experience of techno. Newcomers and veterans alike were swept up in the camaraderie, the palpable buzz of excitement, the sense of unity that only music can conjure.
Looking ahead, the excitement builds for ‘Awakenings Upclose’ set for the 18th and 19th of May – a festival hosted in Spaarnwoude-park near Amstserdampromising a more personal and intimate connection with the music. Its lineup features 999999999, Marlon Hoffstadt, FJAAK, Rebekah, Joris Voorn, Nina Kraviz, and many more. Then, the techno pilgrimage of the year: the Awakenings Summer Festival with a campsite from July 5th to 7th, which will feature a powerhouse lineup including Nico Moreno, Miss Monique, Amelie Lens, Chris Stussy, Hot Since 82, Patrick Mason, and a special b2b with Adam Beyer & Joseph Capriati, plus Kölsch & Kevin De Vries, Vintage Culture, and so many more. These are not just dates but destinations, milestones on the techno calendar for fans around the world.
This Easter weekend was a testament to the enduring spirit of Awakenings. Each visit to the Gashouder is a new chapter in an ongoing epic, a story that we write together, dancing under one roof. As we move forward, the anticipation for Awakenings’ next chapter is palpable, ensuring that the techno journey we embark on will continue to be nothing short of legendary.
Need a little help to plan your next Awakenings adventure? Check out these guides now!
Guide to Awakenings Summer Festival
Awakenings NYE 2023: A Techno Voyage at the Gashouder
Guide to Awakenings Spring Festival
Ultimate Guide to Getting Ready for a Music Festival
*Disclaimer: Please note that these dates are subject to change, so it’s important to check the festival’s website for the most up-to-date information.
