For several years now, VEGA has had a clear strategy when it comes to creating better representation and inclusion on our stages. This strategy moves along two tracks:

1. The Programme - Our overall booking strategy is built around broad diversity. We present a wide variety of genres in a multifaceted programme, and we’re constantly working to reduce imbalances.

We are committed to include artists over the age of 40, who are often overlooked in the entertainment industry. We want to give them a platform to share their talent and experiences. We’ve significantly increased the number of female artists on our stages and are actively working to include artists of all genders. The same applies to artists creating for children and young people, as well as artists from minority ethnic backgrounds.

2. The Dialogue - VEGA takes an active stance and we engage in the dialogue. We reach out, encourage and create access for both musicians and audiences who may not find their way to us on their own. This means programming differently, and we’ve opened up for co-curation in collaboration with new organisers. Our mentoring work is also closely tied to this dialogue.

VEGA uses a Diversity Compass as a guiding tool to promote inclusion and broader representation.

We focus on securing opportunities and visibility for young people from minority ethnic backgrounds, who have historically been underrepresented in arts and culture. We aim to highlight and celebrate their unique perspectives and contributions. In particular, our collaboration with a youth panel in Re:stage has given us invaluable insight and input into how we can improve access and opportunities.

Mentorship Behind the Scenes
VEGA is committed to strengthening talent development behind the scenes through mentorship programmes for stage technicians and stronger dialogue with new agencies and managements. That’s why we’ve initiated internships and exchange programmes with educational institutions such as DDSKS, RMC, EUC NORD, ITU, Sonic College, RF Højskole and NEXT.

We’ve met our goals to include more female technicians and continue to welcome interns for shorter placements. It’s part of our ambition to help lift young technical talents to the next level.

Our mentorship programme also supports new organisers in the live music industry. We’ve launched partnerships and are planning a series of events where a group of young people will produce and run their own concert events – with VEGA’s team offering guidance and support throughout the process.

In 2024, we are working with:

• SheCanPlay
• Jazzhouse (part of Jazz i Trekanten)
• Re:stage and Mino Danmark
• Danish Song Academy
• Fish Tank – Copenhagen Municipality’s social project for marginalised youth.

At VEGA, we recognise the importance of creating a space where everyone feels welcome and represented. To make that a reality, we’re committed to promoting and supporting diversity on multiple fronts.

Our work for equal access is rooted in authenticity and inclusion, and we continue to explore new ways to represent and support diversity in everything we do. We believe that by working together as a community, we can help shape a more fair and inclusive arts and culture scene for all.

VEGA are also working towards a greater geographic reach. Through our national network of venues and educational institutions, we bring our events and resources to new places and communities. Everyone, no matter where they live, should have access to cultural experiences and opportunities.

We’re actively working to include and support people with visible and invisible disabilities. That means adapting our facilities and events to meet a range of needs and to ensure an inclusive environment for everyone. Among other things, we’ve introduced the use of the Hidden Disabilities sunflower lanyard, and at all our concerts, we reserve a number of free companion tickets for guests who need assistance.

A dedicated focus on youth
Throughout the year, VEGA presents a number of programme highlights specifically aimed at children and young people. This isn’t just a general part of our strategy — it’s something we’re actively working on through special initiatives too:

We’re proud to host the very first live music experience for many young people. That includes partnerships with Rytmisk Center, Humle Efterskole, SheCanPlay, and a new collaboration with the Danish Songwriter Academy, which connects emerging young talents with new audiences.

In collaboration with Kastanievejen Musikefterskole and Sankt Annæ Skole, we’ve invited young people to concerts — and we’ve seen huge interest from children and teens across a wide variety of genres and styles.

By also focusing on children and youth facing challenges, we believe that music and community can become powerful tools for greater inclusion. That’s why we specifically work to reach children and young people who might not otherwise engage with cultural institutions — including those from marginalised or vulnerable backgrounds.

VEGA is part of the founding group behind Musiklivets Partnerskab — a cross-industry alliance of music sector decision-makers working toward a more sustainable music scene. Together, we’ve launched initiatives to improve representation and mental wellbeing in the industry.

VEGA also took part in Folkemødet, working with Roskilde Festival, Muskelsvindfonden, Dansk Live and Gæstgiveren on a large joint programme focused on equal access, wellbeing, and youth engagement in the music scene. VEGA also collaborated with Kulturmødet on curating concerts for their Main Stage.