From underground raves to massive festivals, rave culture has evolved into a global movement that celebrates freedom, resistance, and self-expression. Rooted in the underground music scene, raving offers a unique space where people can escape everyday pressures and find unity through rhythm. Let’s take a journey through the beats, the community, and the healing power of the rave.

Lights, music, dance, and connection. In this event, Podium programme creator and HU student Jan explores how raving builds community—a space where everyone is free to express themselves—and how it can foster a sense of belonging. Discover more about the power of rave culture in an interview with Didi Kreike, founder of the modular nightlife collective R3LN4CHT, alongside an HU student. And we won’t just talk about it—we’ll experience it. R3LN4CHT will perform their latest work, Safety Sirens, and we’ll end the evening with a meditative rave experience.

What is it about raves that makes people feel comfortable enough to go alone? What makes the experience feel like being part of something bigger than just a party? Which prejudices about raving still need to be challenged? Whether you’re an experienced raver, curious about the culture, or a sceptic—everyone is welcome to join this evening and feel the magic of the rave for yourself.

About the guests
R3LN4CHT is a modular collective rooted in (queer) nightlife and contemporary pop and visual culture. Their work spans theatre performances, experimental projects, club nights, and community gatherings. As a hybrid art initiative, R3LN4CHT moves fluidly across different contexts, blending forms and spaces.

The performance Safety Sirens will be presented by Didi Kreike and Hélène Vrijdag. We’ll also host an interview with Didi Kreike, founder of R3LN4CHT, alongside an HU student. The evening concludes with a meditative uptempo rave experience, guided by Lodewijk van Dijk.

Art and cultural expressions are a reflection of the time we live in. So what better way to explore and shape the topics that matter to you, than by getting creative with them yourself? Each edition focuses on a theme that resonates with you, accompanied by workshops that dive deeper into it. Share your thoughts with fellow students, and pick up new creative skills along the way.

The main language during this event is English. The main entrance of De Helling is unfortunately not wheelchair-accessible, but it is possible to open another door to enter with a wheelchair. Furthermore, the venue and café (including accessible toilet) are on the same level, and are both located on the ground floor. If you want to reserve a barstool or come to De Helling with a wheelchair, please call 030 221 9944 or send an e-mail to info@dehelling.nl.