The Endshows of Defqon.1 are among the biggest highlights of the weekend every year. These moments bring everything together: music, lights, fireworks, and emotion. In the new documentary “Defqon.1: The Magic of the Endshow,” 3voor12 journalist Atze de Vrieze dives into the creative process behind one of these iconic closing moments on the Holy Grounds.
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At the center of the documentary is Jonas Schmidt, Head of Creative at Q-dance. More than 25 years ago, he started in the dance scene and has since grown into one of the most influential creative forces behind Defqon.1. From his home in Italy, Schmidt works for months with a large team on the shows that define the festival – from the Opening Ceremony to POWER HOUR and, of course, the Endshows. “Each scene is like a dance,” Jonas explains. “Sometimes you do what people expect, and sometimes the exact opposite. We’re constantly looking for contrast to keep it exciting to watch.”
1800 lights and a perfectly timed spark
The documentary showcases the scale and precision of the production. Lighting designer Robert Jan reveals that just for the mainstage The RED, 1,800 lights are used to illuminate the stage structure, plus another 600 for show lighting. Add lasers, flames, drones, and fireworks to that mix. The viewer sees how the team works together to align every element with the music. What looks like pure explosion on stage is, in reality, the result of months of planning, design, and technical synchronization.
From high-tech to handcrafted
The film also follows Jonas Schmidt and pyro chef Lucas Gerritzen as they travel to a fireworks factory in Valencia. There, it turns out the fireworks for the Endshow are still handcrafted by a family business. “You’d think the fireworks for such a hi-tech show would be produced in China,” says Atze de Vrieze in the documentary, “but nothing could be further from the truth. It’s traditional craftsmanship.”
Defqon.1: The Magic of the Endshow
Defqon.1: The Magic of the Endshow offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at Q-dance’s creative process. The film shows how ideas are born, how different disciplines come together, and how a vision is gradually transformed into a show that captures the imagination worldwide. It’s an honest and inspiring glimpse into the dedication behind one of the most spectacular moments in hardstyle culture.
