Electronic music has evolved from humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon, driven in part by platforms like TikTok, which have made the genre more accessible and engaging for a larger audience. Artists like Charli XCX and Beyonce have blurred genre lines with dance-infused albums, while prominent industry figures are hitting fashion runways, styled by luxury brands, and are soundtracking shows at Paris Fashion Week. This cultural fusion is more than just a trend - it’s a movement. In 2023, the electronic music industry reached a staggering valuation of $11.8 billion, and live events are at the heart of this growth. But behind every packed dance floor, are the visionary organisers who make it all happen.
In this edition of The B-Side we spoke with Elizabeth Cyprian, Brand & Artist manager of EXHALE events, the event-series headed by techno luminary Amelie Lens. With over a decade of experience in event management and a deep passion for dance music, Elizabeth has crafted unforgettable experiences for fans around the world. Her journey from working at The BPM Festival to managing some of the biggest techno events on the planet offers valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in this fast-paced, high-pressure industry.
Finding purpose on the dance floor
Elizabeth’s love for electronic music wasn’t born in an office - it came to life on the dance floor. “It started at a warehouse party in Brooklyn,” she recalls. “The sense of freedom and community was electrifying. I knew then that I wouldn’t be a DJ, but I was certain I’d be a lifelong dancer. I wanted to recreate that feeling for others.” This desire to create transformative experiences for others led her down the path of event management, where she could bring people together through music.
“I sent him a very embellished and sassy email ending with ‘you want me to work for you. Contact me here.”
Her entry into the industry is a story of both fate and audacity. While attending The BPM Festival, she met co-founder Phillip Pulitano on the dance floor. Seizing the moment, she sent him a bold email afterward, signing off with: “You want me to work for you. Contact me here.” To her surprise, he responded, and her career in the industry began.
Building the EXHALE experience: Authenticity and connection
EXHALE, the event series that Liz manages for Amelie Lens, has grown into a global community. What started as a small passion project has turned into a cultural touchstone for techno lovers. But what makes EXHALE stand out in a crowded electronic music landscape?
“Amelie Lens is one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met, and her energy resonates throughout EXHALE. It’s about creating connections,” Elizabeth explains. “We’re not just here to throw parties; we’re building a community that feels like family.” This authenticity is what sets EXHALE apart from other events - it’s rooted in a feeling, a shared experience that resonates deeply with fans.
The Art of curation: Crafting an immersive journey
Curating an EXHALE event goes beyond booking headliners. Elizabeth sees each event as a story, with the venue, visuals, and lineup all contributing to a cohesive narrative. “We want every show to be an experience,” she says. “The venue is crucial - it needs to have the right vibe. Whether it’s the industrial edge of Printworks or the magic of Ibiza, the space plays a huge role in setting the tone.”
In today’s social media-driven world, the visual element of an event has become just as important as the music. Platforms like TikTok have changed how people engage with live events, creating a demand for visually captivating moments. “People want something they can share,” Elizabeth notes. “That’s why visuals are so important. We work with a core production team, but we’re always looking for fresh talent to keep things exciting.”
Navigating challenges: The balancing act of event management
Like any large-scale production, organising an EXHALE event comes with its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is managing costs without sacrificing the quality of the experience. “With inflation, we’ve seen costs increase by up to 30%, but people’s salaries haven’t gone up. It’s a delicate balancing act between offering an unforgettable experience and keeping it affordable for attendees,” Elizabeth says.
She’s also had her share of behind-the-scenes scrambles. From artist delays to technical issues, things don’t always go as planned. “There was one time I had to completely reshuffle set times because an artist’s flight was delayed. In moments like that, adrenaline kicks in, but experienced organisers know that you need to stop, assess the situation, and then act,” she explains. “It’s all about controlling the tempo and making sure the team is in sync.”
Building community: The heart of EXHALE
One of the things that makes EXHALE truly special is its sense of community. “Community is part of EXHALE’s DNA,” says Elizabeth. “Amelie is incredibly down-to-earth, and that vibe flows through our events. During the pandemic, we really leaned into online engagement, creating spaces where fans could stay connected. It’s not just about the music - it’s about building a family.”
Elizabeth points to EXHALE’s core group of fans, many of whom have been following the event series since its inception. “We have people who have been with us since day one. They’re like our show family.”
Don’t miss EXHALE x Awakenings this ADE – grab your tickets now for an electrifying experience!
Advice for aspiring event organisers: Start small, think big
For those looking to break into the event industry, Elizabeth has some practical advice. “First, define your ethos and make it your guiding star. Your mission statement should inform every decision you make. And start small. Build a solid foundation before scaling up. A successful event is a marathon, not a sprint.”
“Literally imagine yourself as the attendee coming in, checking in, going to the bar, to the dancefloor. Then as an artist being picked up, arriving, going to the stage, imagine where the team will operate”
She also warns against prioritising certain aspects of the event over others. “Literally imagine yourself as the attendee coming in, checking in, going to the bar, to the dancefloor. Then as an artist being picked up, arriving, going to the stage, imagine where the team will operate. The moment you start to think the green room is more important than the general entrance, you are thinking wrong.”
Staying authentic in a changing industry
In an industry that’s constantly evolving, it can be tempting to chase trends. But for Liz, staying true to the core identity of EXHALE is non-negotiable. “We revisit our mission regularly to make sure it aligns with our current direction. Trends are great, but they shouldn’t dictate your core values. If a trend aligns with our ethos, we embrace it. If not, we stick to our guns.”
Looking ahead: What’s next for EXHALE?
As for what’s next for EXHALE, Liz remains tight-lipped, but excited. “We’re always cooking up something new. Our goal is to keep things fresh while staying true to the experience our fans have come to love.”
Whether she’s organising sell-out festivals or helping others navigate the challenges of the music industry through FWD Motion, one thing is clear: Liz's passion for creating transformative experiences is unwavering. And as house and techno continue to rise, EXHALE will remain at the forefront, lighting up dance floors around the world.
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