- "Contentment in Union": Wilhelmsburg's Dockville
As the sun begins to set, the famous band Bilderbuch holds center stage at the "Vorschot" area, drawing in a huge crowd who are all in high spirits, appreciating the Austrian group. Singer Maurice Ernst encourages the crowd, saying, "Let's just have a great time together today." This harmonious vibe has been a constant at the festival MS Dockville in Hamburg-Wilhelmsburg since its start in 2007.
The ambiance is delightful. The enchanting industrial landscapes glisten under a floral video display later in the night. The afternoon rain clears out, welcoming numerous visitors to bask in the commencement of the pop and art festival MS Dockville in Hamburg-Wilhelmsburg on a balmy Friday evening in late summer. By the end of the first day, 18,000 people have come together at the expansive area. By Sunday, more than 55,000 guests are predicted to attend.
People wander between the main stages Großschot, Vorschot, and Maschinenraum, catching everything from 60s rock to electro-pop and hip-hop.
Singer-songwriter Alice Phoebe Lou opens the evening with her heartfelt tunes, apologizing for her grim facial expressions due to agonizing back pain. The British band The Vaccines decorate the stage with flowers and get the crowd swaying with their energetic 60s rock. This collective elation transforms MS Dockville into a fleeting utopia.
With a futuristic appearance, American singer Ashnikko, based in London, takes the stage, appearing to have stepped out of a video game. She delivers a visually stunning performance with experimental electro-pop. She sings about deserts and scarcity of water, rapping "You Make Me Sick!" as she powerfully dances alongside two stage performers in front of a video screen and a stage decor that resembles fluid plants.
MS Dockville goes beyond music, showcasing art as well. According to press spokesperson Eike Eberhardt, the percentage of non-musical contributions has increased again this year. Ten exclusive new urban artworks specifically crafted for the festival can be discovered during guided tours of the site.
For example, the intricate wooden structure "Art that will Give You a Headache, but in a Good Way" by artist Lattemit. It's illuminated brightly later in the night. "It's good to have you here," reads a large billboard by artist Finallyfoundagoodusername. And this optimistic tone fits perfectly with the laid-back atmosphere of the festival.
Visitors, many of whom are camping on the site, engage in silk-screen printing workshops, readings, or Bollywood dance performances during the day. Various DJs keep the dance floors, bathed in vibrant lights and surrounded by greenery, rocking late into the night.
By Sunday, over 140 musicians, bands, and DJs perform on around a dozen stages, including the techno brass band Meute, singer-songwriter Zoe Wees, and rapper Disarstar.
The festival MS Dockville, known for its blend of music and art, features a variety of urban artworks. Visitors can discover ten new pieces specifically created for the event, such as the illuminated "Art that will Give You a Headache, but in a Good Way" by Lattemit.
Art also plays a significant role in the daytime activities, with silk-screen printing workshops, readings, and Bollywood dance performances available for festival-goers.
