Kreuzberg is the place to go if you are in Berlin Germany and you want to sample a place that defines the essence of the city, its creativity and innovation. Situated in the centre of Berlin, Kreuzberg is an energetic area that is famous for the numerous murals, ethnicitiy and young people, various clubs and bars. In the middle of Kreuzberg is SO36, a cult club which has now become the epitome of the district. In this article we will discuss the past of SO36, its meaning and the interesting and innovative happening occurring at the venue.

The History of SO36

AskClub: SO36 is an unusual music venue, club and cultural center located at Oranienstraße 190, Kreuzberg, Berlin. The abbreviation “SO36” was derived from the later address of the facility when it was founded during the late 1970s. Kreuzberg itself was at that time a centre for the counterculture in the ‘West’ of a city that was still formally divided. SO36 very soon impressed with the atmosphere and became popular among artists, musicians, students, squatters, and punks.

Earlier, SO36 was a punk rock club which enabled bands like the Dead Kennedys, Einstürzende Neubauten and Die Ärzte. Still, it was not long ago that venue started to welcome almost all spectrum of music styles ranging from rock, electronic, reggae and hip-hop and other. Presently it has become a place for existing and new talents of different colors to perform at SO36.

Spiritual Aspects of Revolution and Reception

Compared to many other areas of Berlin, Kreuzberg has always been fairly vocal politically and socially, and SO36 is no exception. The venue continued to be the hub of different social struggles that happened during the 1980s concerning squatters, nuclear power fights, and gay liberalization. This is, however, turned into a ground on which these discriminated groups formed their voices and made people aware of their suffering.

Further, the heritage of SO36 was and still actively remains a hub Sunday for the non-conformist and subculture society that welcomes multiculturalism. It has also contributed towards the growth of Berlin’s urban music backdrop and acting as a focal point to artists, musicians and tourists. The ambience selected by the club has ensured that the targeted demographic achieve a feeling of the arts and an actual cultural experience.

A Diverse Program of Events

SO36 commemorate their host of performances today providing texts and visual delights for the audience in the form of live concerts, thematic parties, art exhibitions as well as organizing political discussions. Current activities at the venue lay down musical performances, from local talents and guests from other countries, thus making it convenient for patrons of various tastes.

Punk rockers its electronic, world beats to ravers and fans of indie rock and everything in between can catch bands in their preferred action. One night, you might be slam dancing at the punk rock concert, and the next you are enjoying the tunes from a prominent disc jockey. It also has normal weekly revues most of them revolving around every season a week before the actual season is due like 80s party, goth, and metal among others.

From the above descriptions, manifest functions can be seen as it not only playing a musical and party environment role but also as a political and social discourse as well as an art gallery. The venue presents occasions that concern significant topics in the society to reduce the impact of social problems within the intended audience. Thus, it will not be an exaggeration to describe SO36 as an art platform that presents ideas and art and performance that involves music and much more than merely providing fun.

Tips for Visiting SO36

Purchase Tickets in Advance

As it is likely with any popular concert or event at SO36, it is recommended to buy the tickets in advance. Many shows tend to be fully booked and getting an early booking means that one shall avoid the disappointments that come with shows that were fully booked.

Arrive Early

Since it is reckoned as one of the best clubs in Berlin, one should expect long line-outs and lack of great places inside, thus, it is better to arrive as early as possible. This is more or less the case with any standing room only concerts.

Adhere to Venue Etiquette and Disregard the Compliments

The SO36 club was famously established with welcoming its people, gay or not, as its main policy. Always adhere to the policies and practices of the venue and always bear in mind the community standard and culture. Remember SO36’s attitude by maintaining a friendly environment.

Take a Walk Around and have a Look

So, next time you visit Kreuzberg, be sure to spend a few hours to go around the neighbourhood. Kreuzberg is famous for its graffiti, pubs, and numerous international, modern and creative food offerings. Find the understate treasures and get to feel the spirit of the Kreuzberg district.

Be informed with regards to the occurrences listed on the event calendar.

The event list with SO36 is always different and constantly changing, which is common knowledge. To find out the next performances, parties and other events, check their website, or follow them in social networks.

Conclusion

Welcome to SO36 – a legendary club, freedom, protest and togetherness in one place. A great atmosphere, friendly people, and a rather extensive list of events make it the perfect place to get to know Berlin’s culture if you are an admirer of traditions and customs. If you fancy yourself a lover of music, an art lover, or someone who just wants to know what the ‘Crazy Coloured Kids’ are up to, then the SO36 in Kreuzberg…well, it won’t disappoint. Thus, take your ticket in your hand, jump into the bright background, and your tour to explore Berlin’s counterculture is starting at SO36!