Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) is a cornerstone in the global Electronic music calendar, drawing artists, industry professionals, and fans from around the world for a whirlwind of music, connections, and creative exchanges. This year, we sat down with Cynthia Laclé to reflect on her experience at this year’s ADE. Known for her unique perspective and dedication to the Electronic music scene, Cynthia delves into the intensity of the event, her approach to networking, and how she navigates the packed schedules and energy of the week.
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4ZXQ1YNfsAZOXvc9kEwhLU?si=-b8FN2D6SzaXmGfLxk_hJQ
Hi Cynthia, how are you?
Hiii, all good here and you?
To start, can you tell us about your experience at ADE this year?
What else to say then work, no sleep, maybe eat and repeat hahahah. ADE is always super hectic but so rewarding in the end. So, all worth it.
Which events or sessions stood out to you the most and why?
I actually had a few events I wanted to go to, Awakenings in Gashouder. The venue is so epic. AMF for the line-up. But other than that, not so much. There were a lot of changes this year.
Were there any trends or ideas that caught your attention during the conference?
No not this year. I was hoping for a few trends but I was a bit disappointed about this year. I have attended ADE for so many years, and it’s changing a lot in my opinion.
With several events across multiple venues, ADE can be overwhelming. How did you decide which events to attend?
I ended up going nowhere. I was so tired. I have been connecting and working all day. I just wanted to chill afterwards and have a good meal. Haven’t eaten much during the day because you’re constantly running from one location to another. Meetings always have delays.
In your opinion, how do you think the event is helping to shape the future of Electronic music?
I think that ADE has a big contribution to it. All the right people are there, and it’s an opportunity to meet the right people. For an artist or event organisation, but when I look back on how I got a lot of connections, it’s definitely a big help for my career.
ADE is a prime networking opportunity. Did you make any new connections that you think will influence your work moving forward?
I did meet a few new people, but I mostly connected with contacts that I already had. And discussed new plans, catching up, developing. Also met bigger artists—that was a real boost for me. People you look up to; it’s just nice to meet other artists that inspire me. Also, people who wanted to meet me because they look up to me is a big honour. However, it’s a bit weird for me though, or maybe I’m too shy 🙈.
How would you describe the overall vibe of Amsterdam during ADE week to someone who hasn’t been?
Chaotic for sure. But super rewarding.
Did you perform at any events for ADE this year? If so, can you share how you found the experience?
No not this year. I really had my focus on contacts and connecting. But playing at ADE the last years has always been super epic, so I’m sure that it was epic to play this year as well.
Finally, how do you unwind after a busy week at ADE?
Sleep for 1 week, hahaha.
ADE remains one of the most demanding and exhilarating events on the calendar, and for artists like Cynthia Laclé, it’s both a time to recharge and reconnect with the community. Through her ADE reflections, we gain insight into the world behind the performances and public showcases—the world of relentless networking, commitment, and passion that drives the scene forward. For Cynthia, it’s an unmissable chance to build new bridges, maintain old ones, and refocus on her journey within Electronic music.
Cynthia Laclé Online
