BERLIN CALLING

Berlin Calling is a gripping account of the 1989 'peaceful revolution' in East Germany that upended communism and the tumultuous years of artistic ferment, political improvisation, and pirate utopias that followed. It’s the story of a newly undivided Berlin when protest and punk rock, bohemia and direct democracy, techno and free theater were the order of the day.

In a story stocked with fascinating characters from Berlin’s highly politicized undergrounds—including playwright Heiner Müller, cult figure Blixa Bargeld of the industrial band Einstürzende Neubauten, the internationally known French Wall artist Thierry Noir, the American multimedia artist Danielle de Picciotto (founder of Love Parade), and David Bowie during his Ziggy Stardust incarnation—Hockenos argues that the DIY energy and raw urban vibe of the early 1990s shaped the new Berlin and still pulses through the city today.

About the author:

Paul Hockenos is a Berlin- and New York–based writer and political analyst who has been working in Germany and across Central and Eastern Europe since 1989. His work has appeared in The New York Times, Foreign Affairs, CNN, TheAtlantic.com, The Nation, Foreign Policy and The Chronicle of Higher Education, among other periodicals.

                                                       
Time:

18:30 - 19:30 - Welcome drink
19:30 - 20:30 - Presentation and discussion with the author
20:30 - 23:00 - Reception and dj session (indoor/outdoor incl. drinks and buffet/appetizers)

Location:

Atelier 29
Rue Jacques de Lalaing 29
1000 Brussels

Speakers:

Paul Hockenos: Writer, political analyst and author of the book 'Berlin Calling'

Gudrun Gut : German electronic musician, DJ, presenter, music producer and founder of the Monika Enterprise. She was an early member of Einstürzende Neubauten and a founding member of music groups Mania D, Malaria! and Matador

Dirk Steenhaut : Brussels baised Belgian music journalist and singer, songwriter 

Moderation:

Klaus Linsenmeier : Head of Office Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union