The new short film When The Music Ends, directed by Mo Kanaan and produced by Spilled Milk, premiered recently in Berlin, and it addresses a pressing issue in the nightlife and electronic music community: safety in nightlife spaces. This powerful film explores the widespread problem of sexual harassment in club culture, urging awareness and action to create safer spaces for both workers and patrons. Supported by prominent organizations like MeToo, Beatport, Pioneer, Safer Dance, and Ravemore, When The Music Ends is an urgent call for change in an industry where harassment has too often been normalized.
Stories from the Scene
The film’s narrative is based on real, anonymous accounts from individuals identified by the Electronic Music Inclusion Initiative (EMII) as part of high-risk groups. EMII’s extensive global study highlights the prevalence of harassment in nightlife and serves as the foundation for the film’s portrayal of three characters who navigate the realities of sexual harassment in club environments. Through their stories, When The Music Ends captures the emotional and physical toll of these experiences, ranging from microaggressions to unwanted physical advances.
In EMII’s study, conducted across 28 countries, over 600 incidents of harassment were reported, with a high concentration in the UK, Germany, and the US. Women, particularly women of color working in nightlife spaces, were disproportionately affected. This research underscores the urgent need for intervention and stronger protections for vulnerable groups in the music industry.
Promoting Change and Safety
When The Music Ends is more than a storytelling project; it’s a call to action for the nightlife community. The film highlights the role of bystanders and the community in recognizing and addressing abusive behaviors. Through MeToo Music’s backing, the project aims to empower individuals to speak up and intervene to create a safer, more inclusive club culture.
MeToo Music, renowned for its activism in the music industry, continues its mission to combat sexual harassment and discrimination through initiatives like When The Music Ends, aiming to promote accountability and awareness.
The release of When The Music Ends is accompanied by a dedicated website where viewers can learn more about the project’s objectives and stay updated on future events. Upcoming initiatives include panel discussions and fundraising efforts, aimed at supporting those impacted by harassment and abuse in nightlife. These efforts are set to continue into 2025, focusing on sustainable solutions for safer spaces within the music industry.
You can watch When The Music Ends on YouTube and find out more about the project and its mission at whenthemusicends.com.
As the push for safer nightlife spaces gains momentum, When The Music Ends serves as a reminder that much more work is needed. This film is a call for everyone—from club-goers to DJs and behind-the-scenes crew members—to actively participate in creating an environment where everyone can feel safe and respected. The safety and inclusivity of nightlife spaces are responsibilities shared by the entire community.