Sweet Encounters
27. July 2025
#concert experience design
© Maike Müstermann / Beethovenfest
What makes a concert a truly special experience? Sometimes, it’s the small, unexpected moments that stay with us the longest. This Star Moment brings exactly that kind of magic into the foyer: with a lovingly stocked tray and a twinkle in their eye, our tray carriers greet the audience, spark conversations, and ease the atmosphere - even before the first note sounds.
The tray carriers move actively through the foyer, approach the audience, and ask with a wink: “What do you need for a great concert?” In this way, new dialogues and little moments of wonder emerge before the performance begins, setting the mood for what’s to come and inspiring guests to join in the exchange themselves.
Ob Schnuller für Ersthörer:innen, Ohropax für leise Genießer, Hustenbonbons, Fächer oder Opernglas – aus dem Bauchladen gibt es fast alles, was das (Konzert)Herz begehrt und vielleicht gar nicht wusste, dass es gebraucht wird. Ein Kondom, Taschentücher oder ein Kissen zur Erhöhung? Auch das – alles mit einem humorvollen Charme, der zum Schmunzeln und ins Gespräch einlädt.
Who is this Star Moment for?
Everyone! Especially at small to medium-sized events, this format can unfold its full effect. It’s accessible, welcoming to first-time listeners, and requires little more than one or several creative people who enjoy approaching others - and a thematically playful and creative tray. The items are given away or loaned on a trust basis.
Variations welcome:
Several tray carriers can circulate at once, sell program booklets, or run small side activities such as raffles. For those who dare, the action can even continue before or after the concert - like an ice-cream seller in the cinema, only with a wink and plenty of charm.
Auch ungewöhnliches Publikum kann man so ins Konzert locken
This Concert Experience Design was developed as part of Inside Artists, a residency program by the Beethovenfest Bonn, supported by the Liz Mohn Foundation, in collaboration with the festival’s program team and other artists.
