Behind the "Tresor" Door: The Evolution of Berlin's Club Culture

The massive steel door of “Tresor”, once part of the Wertheim department store on Leipziger Platz that was confiscated by the Nazis, and now a symbol of Berlin’s legendary techno era, provides the perfect backdrop for the evening. The guests will discuss the evolution of the electronic music scene since the 1990s, the role of women in this field, and the significance of club culture as a sociocultural and economic factor for Berlin.

Hegemann will offer insights into the early days of “Tresor”, when the club emerged “on the edge of the world.” Ellen Allien, known for her passion for nurturing new talent, will share her perspectives on the development of emerging artists within the scene. Together, the experts will look ahead to the future of Berlin’s club scene.

Ellen Allien, an icon of the electronic music scene, has built an impressive career over the years, serving as a role model for a thriving underground community. Her playful mindset and openness to knowledge exchange infuse her art with an energy that has significantly influenced Berlin’s subculture in music, art, design, and fashion. With over ten albums, numerous singles, EPs, remixes, and collaborations, Ellen has carved out her own niche in Dark Rave and Techno. As head of BPitch since 1999 and UFO Inc. since 2019, she supports both emerging talents and established artists. As a dynamic DJ icon, she has performed at major clubs and festivals worldwide. During the pandemic, she supported the community with intimate Balcony Streaming Sessions. Her “We Are Not Alone” parties in Berlin, which now also tour internationally, are legendary. In 2024, she released the seventh volume of the “We Are Not Alone” compilation, her “Rave Luv” EP, and a remix for Cold Wave artist Sad Madona.

Dimitri Hegemann, born in 1954, is a German entrepreneur, cultural organiser, and music industry figure. He founded the Berlin Atonal Festival in 1982 and the “Tresor” Club along with “Tresor Records” in 1991, both of which became icons in the global techno scene. In 2007, he moved “Tresor” to an old power plant, which evolved into Kraftwerk Berlin. In 2021, Hegemann established the “Tresor Foundation Berlin” to support cultural projects. Through initiatives like Happy Locals e.V. and innovative ideas, he has had a lasting impact on the international music and cultural scene.

Anja Schneider, an experienced German DJ, producer, and radio host, boasts an impressive career in the electronic music scene. Her journey began in the early 1990s in Berlin, where she quickly became part of the burgeoning techno scene.Schneider established herself as a prominent radio personality, particularly with her show “Dance Under The Blue Moon” for Radio Fritz, which ran for nearly 20 years and significantly contributed to Berlin’s underground scene. Simultaneously, she developed a reputation as a respected DJ and producer, founding the label Mobilee and later Sous Music.Today, Schneider is internationally sought after as a DJ, continues to produce music, and hosts radio shows. With her PuMp events in Berlin, she demonstrates her ongoing commitment to the underground scene and emerging talents.