Throwback to the 80s: Kassel celebrates legendary concert stories!

Throwback to the 80s: Kassel celebrates legendary concert stories!

Yesterday the exhibition “Falling Back into the 80s” opened at the Nordshausen community center in Kassel, and what an event it was! The show, which can be visited until July 6, 2025, offers visitors a journey back in time to one of the most colorful and diverse decades in recent history. Organized by Oliver Köhler, a former drummer and concert agent, the exhibition brings memories of the unforgettable concerts and the lively bar scene in Kassel to life. Köhler, who brought artists like Bap, Joe Cocker and Udo Lindenberg to Kassel, not only staged the nostalgia of the 80s, but also shared special experiences from that time. He not only thinks of his interview with Udo Lindenberg from 1984, but also of the unforgettable catering moments for Bap that same year.

The exhibition sheds light on Kassel's music scene and its former nightlife in detail. On Saturdays there are special musician evenings to which former Kassel musicians are invited. Visitors can look forward to large text panels, impressive images and music from the 80s, many of the photos are by Stefan Lewalder. A real highlight for everyone who lived during this time!

A look at the 80s

What made the 80s so special? In addition to large concerts, many themes shaped the decade. The Cold War, environmental disasters and political protests against rearmament challenged society. At the same time, the music of legends like Madonna, the Beastie Boys and Modern Talking was on everyone's lips. The streets were lined with colorful fashion trends - jackets with shoulder pads and brightly colored leggings dominated the fashion world. Video games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong provided hours of gaming fun.

Particular attention is also paid to culture: shows like “Wetten Dass…?”, series like “Dallas” and films like “E.T.” were the entertainment classics of that time. The exhibition “Falling Back into the 80s” shows over 300 exhibits that reflect not only everyday culture, but also important political and social events such as the fall of the Wall in 1989.

Visit information

If you would like to visit the exhibition, the doors will be open from Tuesday to Friday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. The entry price of 6 euros is a real bargain for a look into this exciting decade. Further information can be found on the website rueckrutsch80er.de.

In times when we often look forward, this exhibition invites us to take a look back and remember the defining moments of the 80s. It will certainly be an exciting journey through time that will fascinate young and old. So, let’s go – let yourself be carried away by the magic of the 80s!

HNA reports on the exhibition. WDR gives background information on Oliver Köhler. Museums.de provides information about the 80s.