Our conference program for Dekmantel '26

For this year’s edition of the Dekmantel Conference, we’re moving further into the city. On Thursday, 30 July, we’ll take over De Balie for an in-depth programme in close collaboration with Resident Advisor and First Floor.

Bringing together artists, writers and cultural thinkers, the multidisciplinary programme explores the ideas, practices and communities shaping electronic music today. Highlights include The Strangeness of Dub, a special commissioned lecture by Edward George, an intimate Q&A with Detroit techno pioneer Juan Atkins, and the return of Resident Advisor’s series of workshops for aspiring artists, where James Holden, Luke Slater and Olof Dreijer will offer insights into live performance and artistic development. Additionally, Tresor Academy will host a hands-on workshop on sustaining independent club culture with Martin Fuller and Diana Alagić.

Panel discussions moderated by First Floor’s Shawn Reynaldo aim to tackle some of our scene’s most pressing questions – from futurism’s ties to electronic music and the limits of online activism to the role of journalism in an era of misinformation. RA’s Doors Open platform will host the ‘Cultivating a Space’ panel, inviting the people behind Garage Noord (Amsterdam), Nowadays (NYC) and Potato Head (Bali) to share and exchange their experiences.

The Dekmantel Conference is free to attend. Panels have limited capacity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that RSVP is required for the workshops. Selected participants will receive confirmation by email.

Check out the full timetable below and secure your spot for free via the links below.

- RA x Dekmantel Conference 2026 - Performing live by Luke Slater

- RA x Dekmantel Conference 2026 - Lively systems byJames Holden

- RA x Dekmantel Conference 2026 - Artistic positioning by Olof Dreijer

- Tresor Academy x Dekmantel Conference 2026 - How To Run A Club

Located in the heart of Amsterdam, De Balie sits just steps away from Melkweg and Paradiso, making it the perfect starting point before diving into our ‘Into The City’ programme. At Melkweg, this includes performances by DARKSIDE, Headache, Josey Rebelle, Juan Atkins presents Infinity, and upsammy & Piezo’s debut as Eerie Enterprise, Meanwhile, Speedy J will take over Paradiso with STOOR – featuring Auroral Halal, Azu Tiwaline, Barker, Carrier and SnPLO