Berlin’s Clubcommission is calling for 'dancing ban' to be lifted
They’re asking the decision be replaced with mandatory PCR testing for nightclub entry
Last week a new rule came into place that effectively banned dancing in nightclubs in Berlin, along with capacity limits on large-scale events.
The ban followed a surge in COVID cases through the country, as well as fears of the new Omicron variant which was recently found in Germany. Berlin’s Clubcommission is now calling to revoke the ban and implement a new system of PCR testing in its place, since “PCR tests offer security”.
Clubcommission chairwoman and representative for Berlin’s club Gretchen, Pamela Schobess, said on the new decision: “In the current climate, we can understand restrictions.”
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“[We] appreciate that clubs - like other cultural venues - continue to have the ability to offer, for example, a seated concert program or even readings. But that alone is not club culture, and consistent political action looks different,” she continued.
The Clubcommission released a statement “criticising” the latest restrictions yesterday, December 13, posting a series of comments on Instagram which asserted: “to ensure that social life can continue during the pandemic, clear strategies are needed, not actionism.”
They added information from August’s pilot event which went ahead to reopen nightlife along with the Senate Department for Culture and Europe and proved that PCR testing works effectively for nightclubs to continue running safely.
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The call for use of PCR testing has been backed with easy instructions to the government on how to go about it; using PCR laboratories, QR code scanners, and a specific app to receive results have all been suggested.
On the dance ban, Clubcommission’s Lutz Leichsenring told Mixmag: “We feel the current legal situation is uncertain because we are allowed to open, but only under deficit conditions.”
He continued, “Apart from the economic damage, this is also a psychological strain on many people, operators and employees alike.”
Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Twitter
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