The Creative Process of Qlimax 2016: ‘Rise of the Celestials’
Qlimax has long been synonymous with groundbreaking spectacle in the harder styles of dance music. Since its move to the Gelredome in 2003, Qlimax has pushed the envelope with its dark themes and cutting-edge technical production, making it the leading indoor arena show in the genre. Alongside Defqon.1 Festival, Qlimax stands as a flagship event for Q-dance. With its final chapter at the Gelredome in Arnhem this November 2024, “The Final Prophecy”, our creative director Mark Rietveld reflects on a project that shaped him as a professional: Qlimax 2016: Rise of the Celestials.
A History of Innovation
Since its debut in the Gelredome in 2003, Qlimax has been at the forefront of indoor arena shows for the harder styles. It has consistently set the standard for what a dance music event can achieve, blending music, visual art, and storytelling in an unparalleled way. Each year, Qlimax has delivered an experience that goes beyond music, creating an immersive world that captivates and inspires. As Q-dance prepares for the event’s final edition in 2024, it’s clear that Qlimax’s legacy will continue to influence the world of dance music.
A Spark of Creativity
The creative process for Qlimax 2016 began with an impressive pencil sketch by Dennis van Harten and an article detailing the qualities of celestial beings. This sketch and article became the foundation for Mark Rietveld to write the storyline for the event. Bringing Dennis’s sketch into 3D with Marcel De Jong helped us to create the key visual for the event, a striking representation of the celestial being. Alongside Lars Gorter, we crafted a trailer that laid out the synopsis of the event. This trailer, as always, served as the audience’s first glimpse into the new theme and sparked a wave of excitement in the harder styles scene.
Culmination of Experience
For Mark Rietveld, Qlimax 2016 represented the culmination of his learnings and experiences from the previous editions he worked on. “This edition was a personal high-light that I still hold in high regard. Integrating theatrical elements, different phases of stage transformations, precise storytelling, and a stellar lineup, I poured my heart into this show.” He reflects on the process with pride, highlighting how every detail and experience came together to create something truly special.
The Night of the Event
The night of the event was a testament to the meticulous planning and hard work of the entire team. The stage design featured different phases of transformation, starting with the peacock, moving through the raven, and culminating in the phoenix before revealing a supreme celestial being. Despite the strenuous programmation nights before the show and the technical difficulties faced by the motion operators, the team remained composed and managed to pull off an unparalleled performance.
Two moments stood out that night: Coone’s anthem show and the return of Project One. These performances not only highlighted the creativity and technical prowess of the team but also resonated deeply with the audience, carving out essential moments in the annals of harder styles history.
Shaping the Future
In his role as creative director for Qlimax 2016, Mark Rietveld was operating as an employee for Q-dance. “This was a defining experience that shaped me into the professional I am today.” His journey with Qlimax has been a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Today, he continues to create experiences that touch hearts and leave lasting impressions, inspired by the energy that can be shared between audience, creators and musicians.
If you’re inspired by our work and want to explore how we can bring your vision to life, contact us at 360 Show Design. Let’s create magic together!
