Berlin’s techno club scene has always been cloaked in mystery when it comes to the criteria for gaining entry. A recent study conducted by the University of Bath, King’s College London, and Freie Universität Berlin aimed to demystify the selection process. Published in the Journal of Marketing, the research revealed that door selectors seek individuals who both ‘fit in’ and ‘stand out’ to enhance the club experience.
However, Berlin-based writer and musicologist, Dr. Liam Cagney, points out that the study only scratches the surface. Cagney describes Berlin’s club culture as a blend of public and private spaces, turning door selection into an art form.
Cagney likens door selectors to hosts extending invitations to a party, shaping the social interactions within clubs. He highlights the clubs’ historical significance, leading to confusion for newcomers expecting easy access.
The rise of ‘techno tourists’ flocking to Berlin, fueled by platforms like TikTok, has added a consumerist element to the scene. Cagney notes that this influx can disrupt the experience for regular attendees, who may feel like they are being observed like zoo animals.
Bouncers play a crucial role in maintaining the club’s atmosphere, with Cagney observing instances where they creatively curate who enters on a given night. While rejection at the door can be disheartening, Cagney believes the current system, though imperfect, is the best option available.
Cagney emphasizes the importance of viewing Berlin’s techno clubs as personal ‘parties’ rather than mere entertainment venues, citing the thrill of becoming an insider amidst the unpredictability of the scene.
Unpredictability remains a constant in club entry, with bouncers sometimes employing whimsical criteria, such as judging based on footwear. Cagney teases the element of playfulness among bouncers, adding to the intrigue of gaining entry.
In October 2025, Cagney will release his novel, “Berghain Nights,” delving into Berlin’s club scene through a blend of essays, memoirs, and interviews with electronic music artists and key figures in the city’s nightlife industry.