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Revitalizing a Former Airport Site: A New Open-Air Club Embraces Diversity
In recent years, Berlin has seen a shift in cultural hubs from the city center to the suburbs, with new clubs and event spaces emerging on former fortress sites and factory grounds. One such venue is ‘Turbulence,’ an open-air club that opened last September on the site of the former Tegel Airport, which closed in November 2020.
‘Turbulence’ is located on the site of the Tegel Airport employees’ cafeteria, which closed after a long 72-year history. The new club makes use of a portion of this site, and it was established in September of last year. A collective well-versed in various cultures is involved in its operation. The club has also embraced sustainable practices, including using DIY interior design and repurposing sound systems from former clubs, such as the Studt Akustik system, similar to the Panorama Bar. We spoke with Alex, the PR representative, about this club that has garnered attention in just one year since its opening.
Could you explain the background of how the open-air club ‘Turbulence’ was established on the site of the former Tegel Airport?
Alex: Early last summer, we learned that the city of Berlin was looking for a collective to establish and operate a club culture on the site of the former Tegel Airport. Although the impact of the pandemic was still felt, it was a moment when the opportunity we had dreamed of for years finally arrived. With limited time before the opening, we utilized our network, quickly formed a new collective, and put together the concept and application. The members of the collective are acquaintances involved in various fields such as Berlin’s art, performance, and club scenes. We were selected from over 25 applicants, and here we are today.
The outdoor festival vibe and unique stage design are impressive. What were the main elements you focused on in the design?
Alex: ‘Turbulence’ is a place where everyone can leverage their strengths and interests and realize their potential throughout all aspects of the process, from stage design and decoration to flooring made of metal and wood, and backstage areas. One day, an old Lada car might unexpectedly appear as decoration, or a beautiful seating area might be created, or a giant tree might be transported by truck—all of these elements are built through collective effort and craftsmanship. These activities are closely related to creating an inclusive space where everyone can be themselves and participate. We place the highest importance on accessibility, anti-discrimination, awareness, community engagement, and diversity. By adhering to clear values and a zero-tolerance policy for discriminatory behavior, we believe that this is how club culture will function effectively in 2024.
There is a diverse lineup of female and queer artists. How do you select the performing artists?
Alex: We decide on specific ideas and concepts within the collective and select performing artists accordingly. We place a strong emphasis on collaborating with kind and considerate people, without making any compromises. This is because the collaboration with artists is usually short-term for a single event, but this initiative becomes part of the collective and contributes to its image. We mix and select artists who align with our concept, have high personal integrity, and bring a specific vibe, along with those we personally want to book.
What do you think about Berlin Techno being registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage?
Alex: With the world focusing on Berlin’s club culture, this recognition proves that Berlin’s reputation is solid (even though techno did not originate here). It underscores the importance of recognizing club culture as part of social life and creating spaces and projects that go beyond commercial purposes. We at ‘Turbulence’ are a prime example of this, and we are very grateful for the funding and support from the Berlin State Cultural Office, Berlin Urban Practices Project Fund Secretariat, Cultural Education and Cultural Advisory Fund, Clubcommission e.V., and Kulturraum Berlin GmbH for selecting us as a host.
Can you share any upcoming projects or objectives you are working towards?
Alex: This year, we plan to collaborate with collectives such as Aurora Kollektiv, Dry, Femme Bass Mafia, Hyper Real, and RAIDERS, hosting 2 to 3 parties or concerts each month. We are also organizing events beyond music, including exhibitions, performances, and theater. Additionally, we aim to showcase at festivals across Germany and Europe. We are very interested in hosting events in Japan as well. If there are any Japanese promoters who would like to collaborate with us, we would love to work together!
