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. “This is the classic answer that music – or in my case, a warehouse party in Brooklyn – saved my life,” she recalls.
“I don’t know if I was particularly in need of saving, but I do remember the incredible feeling of belonging and freedom of expression I felt that night. It was almost immediately that I knew I wouldn’t be a DJ, but I was certain I’d be a lifelong dancer, and I would dedicate myself to recreating that feeling for others." That mission has guided her into event management, where she curates spaces for connection and self-expression 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. A few months later, she sent him a bold email, 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. For Elizabeth, there’s still a sense of disbelief about how far EXHALE has come. “Has EXHALE taken off?? Kidding, not kidding—it’s still something I don’t think I completely grasp.”
"Community, connection and friendliness are natural vibrations of Amelie and so are the natural vibrations of EXHALE."
The series has expanded significantly, with 18 shows in 2023 alone and an average attendance of over 10,000 people. 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? "Community, connection and friendliness are natural vibrations of Amelie and so are the natural vibrations of EXHALE." Elizabeth explains.
"I consider EXHALE the roots and early steps of many people’s electronic music journey or lifestyle. I’ve watched our front line dancers become artists at EXHALE or DJ’s playing in their home city, founders of their own small underground parties …this is incredible and comes with an immense amount of responsibility." This authenticity is what sets EXHALE apart from other events - it’s rooted in a feeling, a shared experience that resonates deeply with fans.
Navigating challenges: The balancing act of event management
Running an EXHALE event is never without its hurdles, and one of the toughest challenges is balancing the rising costs without compromising the experience. "For sure, [a big challenge is] keeping costs down for our attendees," Elizabeth explains. "We’ve watched most providers, due to inflation, raise their prices by up to 30%. However, people's salaries haven’t increased! So how do we make up that 30%?" It’s a tricky equation, where every decision affects the larger picture. "Events are their own mini-ecosystems. If the ticket price is too high, merch and bar sales could drop; if the ticket price is too low, you go into the event already relying on those bar sales to make up for it. It’s a juggling game."
Behind the scenes, the unpredictability of live events can add even more complexity. From artist delays to technical issues, things don’t always go according to plan. "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 you learn to stop, assess, and then act," she says. "It’s all about controlling the tempo and ensuring the team moves in sync."
Building community: The heart of EXHALE
What sets EXHALE apart is the deep sense of community that pulses through its events. "You build on that by recognising its existence and acknowledging them," Elizabeth says. "During 2020, in the midst of COVID, we realised the community we already had and empowered them to be more involved—whether it was asking for their opinions or having them manage fan groups. Our ‘core’—and I say core because they've been with EXHALE or Amelie Lens since the beginning—are like our little show family."
For EXHALE, it’s not just about the music; it's about fostering real connections. "The key? Genuine in-person connections and engaging with them online so they feel seen." Liz says. "You’ve got to keep going back to those core values. This is not a joke! Check in after a few years to see if those ethos have changed. If they have, rewrite that statement, and then decide how to balance them with the new trends."
Elizabeth gives a shout-out to the different communities that have embraced EXHALE across the globe. "Every place has its own charm, but Belgium, of course, is home turf. South America stands out with Colombia, and in North America, it’s Los Angeles. And, of course, we can’t forget the crazy Ibiza crowd." Ultimately, it's the powerful connection with Amelie Lens and that sense of belonging that keeps people coming back.
Want to be part of the EXHALE experience? See where EXHALE is headed next.
Advice for aspiring event organisers: Start small, think big
For those looking to break into the event industry, Elizabeth has some practical advice. “First thing first, get your brands or events ethos down and put it into a mission statement. Those 2 - 3 sentences will become the backbone of what you do, and a statement you should go back to if ever feeling stuck.
“Literally imagine yourself as the attendee coming in, checking in, going to the bar, to the dance floor. 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 dance floor. 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. “Keep going back to those ethos! This is not a joke! Check in after a few years if those ethos have changed. Ok if they have but rewrite that statement. Put that statement next to that trend and you decide how or if they can balance."
Looking ahead: What’s next for EXHALE?
While Elizabeth keeps future plans under wraps, there’s no doubt that EXHALE will continue to evolve and grow. With 2023 marking a milestone year for the series, the next chapter promises to bring even more energy, community, and unforgettable experiences. “We’re always up to something,” she hints. Stay tuned for what’s next in the world of EXHALE.
Elizabeth’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and community. From a dance floor in Brooklyn to the helm of one of the most respected event series in the techno scene, her story shows that staying true to your values and creating spaces for genuine connection is what makes an event truly special.
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