Every year, students from our MBA Performing Arts & Entertainment Management programme visit Berlin, led by Programme Director Alexander Ovechkin and Professor Fabrice Bonniot. This action-packed study trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Berlin's dynamic cultural and artistic landscape while connecting theory with practice.

From Classical Music to Avant-Garde Theatre

The trip began with an inspiring visit to the world-renowned Berliner Philharmoniker, where students attended the Lunch Concert in the Foyer featuring works by Maurice Ravel, Eric Sammut, and Georges Gershwin. A guided tour of the Philharmonie followed, allowing students to appreciate its groundbreaking architecture and the global influence of its legendary orchestra.

The group then explored the historic Berliner Ensemble, a theatre closely tied to the legacy of Bertolt Brecht and Helene Weigel. A tour led by Mona Wahba, Head of Education, provided insights into the theatre's history and operational strategies. Students concluded their visit by attending a new production of The Threepenny Opera, deepening their understanding of Brechtian theatre.

Immersion in Berlin’s Music and Nightlife Scene

Berlin’s reputation as a hub for electronic music was highlighted during a visit to Sound Metaphors, a renowned record shop in Kreuzberg. Students met Basil Monsacré, music programmer at Säule in Berghain, who discussed the intersections of electronic music, cultural entrepreneurship, and programming.

At the Clubcommission Berlin, students engaged with Kai Sachse, general manager of the organisation supporting Berlin’s vibrant club scene since 2000. The discussion covered the challenges and advocacy efforts needed to preserve the city’s cultural landscape.

A defining moment of the trip was attending the Against Interpretation event at Berghain’s Säule room, offering a firsthand experience of Berlin’s legendary nightlife.

Exploring the Future of Digital Arts

The study trip concluded with a visit to the Node Institute, a leading forum for digital arts. Meeting with cross-disciplinary artist Harshini J. Karunaratne, students explored the intersection of film, digital art, and performance, broadening their perspective on the creative industries.

A Transformative Learning Experience

From classical music to digital arts, this Berlin study trip bridged academic knowledge with real-world exposure. For IESA’s MBA students, the city serves as a living classroom where history and modernity shape the future of culture and creativity.