20-Year ‘Durch den Monsun’

The atmosphere during Tokio Hotel’s sold-out anniversary show at Berlin’s Wuhlheide was electric. Over 16,000 fans celebrated two decades of the bands hit “Durch den Monsun” as if the song had just been released. Beyond the music, the spectacular production made the evening truly unforgettable. 

As a technical partner, PRG provided rigging, video, audio, and lighting to turn the band’s creative vision into a one-of-a-kind live experience. Fans were treated to a breathtaking combination of lighting effects, pyrotechnics, and a wide range of stunning special effects, with each highlight seamlessly leading into the next.  

Stage Design with Depth and Transparency 

The centerpiece of the set design was a 223 m² LED wall made of semi-transparent Titan X, developed in collaboration with PRG Projects and the manufacturer Infiled. It framed the entire stage, creating not only a visual backdrop but also a fascinating sense of depth. With 70% transparency, the LED element was seamlessly integrated into the lighting design, resulting in stunning effects where lighting, special effects, and video overlays complemented each other perfectly. “The lights were not only installed in the roof and on the floor but also behind the LED wall to create the best possible fusion of camera images, content, and lighting in a single emotional visual experience,” explained lighting designer Bertil Mark. 

To showcase 20 years of Tokio Hotel’s music in the best possible way, PRG relied on an L-Acoustics sound system featuring K1, K2, and L2. 

Lighting and Movement for Maximum Dynamics 

Bertil Mark’s lighting design included an extensive setup of spotlights and washes, including numerous LED bars creating large color washes. Given the varied sightlines at Wuhlheide, the LED wall, catwalk, and stage edges were fully framed to create a visually impressive and cohesive picture. 

ROXX® NEO FX, ROXX® NEO, Ayrton Eurus moving lights, Cameo ORON H2, and JDC Burst were part of the setup. Additionally, PRG followspot systems ensured the band was perfectly lit throughout their performance. On-site, the show was operated by Tom Groß . 

Monsoon-Level Effects in Wuhlheide 

The stage design, realized by schoko pro of Wiesbaden, featured a flying system that brought frontman Bill Kaulitz onto the stage. Throughout the concert, movable risers on the stage and catwalk added dynamic motion, with lifts and a ribbon lift raising Kaulitz over five meters in the finale. 
 Together with lighting and effects, these elements shaped a technically refined and visually striking production. 

The performance was complemented by show-stopping special effects including golden spark showers, fireworks, pyro, and confetti cannons, welcoming special guests Kraftklub for their joint performance of “Fahr mit mir (4x4).” 

The climax of the show was the anniversary single “Durch den Monsun,” accompanied by an awe-inspiring drone show and an actual indoor rainstorm. The cooling effect was a welcome relief for the 16,000 fans in over 30°C heat, providing a spectacular finale to an unforgettable evening. 

Behind the scenes, PRG demonstrated logistical mastery, moving an impressive 70 tons of equipment across 13 trailers. The breakdown was particularly challenging, as the team had only 4.5 hours to clear the stage for the next production. 

Mark commented: “The requirements here are very, very specific, and it’s crucial that all departments work hand in hand. Especially on days like this, you realize how important teamwork is and how the extensive network of people who have worked together repeatedly makes this possible.” 

To ensure a flawless show day, a full setup rehearsal and six days of technical rehearsals were conducted in advance, leaving nothing to chance at Wuhlheide. 

“I think a show like this has never been done by Tokio Hotel before. It’s staged with all the latest technology to create dramatic tension throughout the entire evening,” said lighting designer Bertil Mark. 

The “20 Jahre durch den Monsun” show was not only a tribute to Tokio Hotel’s musical career but also a showcase of modern live entertainment with innovative LED technology, dynamic lighting design, and spectacular effects—a truly unforgettable night for both fans and the band. 

“Higher. Faster. Further.” – a promise fulfilled by the band to their fans, thanks to everyone involved.