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Event

UvA Science Session @ADE – Mental Breakdown Backstage – what artists experience behind the scenes

Last modified on 01-10-2026 17:15
EVENT IS FULL. Get a unique behind-the-scenes look at the world of dance music. DJ Kesh, Professor Mark Deuze, and special guests Natalie La Rose and Mandy de la Porte take you to a place where ordinary dance music fans rarely get to go: backstage.
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Start date
23-10-2026 16:30
End date
23-10-2026 19:00
Location

Spui 25

This event is in Dutch.

What’s it really like back there? How does it affect you when you give people an amazing experience night after night? How do artists and their crews deal with the pressure of having to perform on stage? And how do you stay mentally strong?

To the audience, backstage seems like a magical place and being a DJ looks like the best job in the world. Yet artists, managers and crew members also face a downside, a harsh reality that can sometimes present mental challenges.

Programme

  • 16:30 - 16:45 Walk-in
  • 16:45 - 18:00 Programme
  • 18:00 - 19:00 Drinks event

Rakesh Kanhai

Also known as DJ Kesh, this UvA alumnus is a true all-rounder: DJ, creative producer, director, dramaturg, lecturer, and cultural entrepreneur. Through his company, Prestige Worldwide, he has worked on live shows and productions for artists such as Boef, Rimon, Ronnie Flex, sor, Mula B, and Wiwek. In addition, he has spent years helping shape practice-based policy within the cultural sector. Drawing on his experience in the music industry, he speaks about the pressure on creators and the importance of mental resilience, authenticity, and a healthy creative work environment.

Natalie La Rose

Natalie La Rose is a singer, DJ, and professional dancer from Amsterdam. She achieved international fame with her double-platinum hit 'Somebody,' featuring Jeremih—a track that has garnered 380 million streams on Spotify alone. Her energetic live shows combine vocals, dance, and DJing. Through her CHIC Foundation, she also champions creativity, hope, and self-confidence among young people. She takes you backstage.

Mark Deuze

Mark Deuze is a Professor of Media Studies at the UvA, where he researches work, creativity, and well-being in the media and creative sectors. He focuses on the impact of digitalization and flexible employment arrangements on creators, including musicians. He is the author of the book 'Well-Being and Creative Careers – What Makes You Happy Can Also Make You Sick'.

Mandy de la Porte

Mandy de la Porte is the founder of 'It’s not all roses', a platform dedicated to raising awareness about mental well-being in the music industry. Developed in collaboration with the Dutch Support Group, her graduation project evolved into an initiative that provides backstage support to artists, including at events like DGTL Festival.

Events