Shapes Festival
Leysin
A conversation with Franck Alfier, Owner, Shapes Festival
Franck Alfier
Owner, Shapes Festival
Two thousand metres above sea level, in the Swiss Alpine resort of Leysin, Shapes Festival has carved out one of the most distinctive niches in European electronic music — a week where the ski slopes and the dancefloor exist in the same day. We spoke to the Shapes team about why the combination of winter sports and underground music works so well, how they win over dedicated summer open-air fans, and what the next generation of festival-tourists will be looking for.
"Shapes will always be for those seeking a different, more meaningful festival experience."
— Franck Alfier, Shapes Festival
Taking high-quality electronic music to the Swiss Alps is a bold concept. For a music lover who also loves hitting the slopes, what makes the combination of winter sports and underground music the ultimate, unmissable getaway — compared to a standard ski trip?
The answer's actually in the question. If you love music and hitting the slopes, a festival like ours just makes sense. We also offer incredible packages that make the full experience affordable — and we've even converted plenty of non-skiers into ski lovers along the way.
Many electronic music fans naturally gravitate towards summer festivals because they love raving outdoors in warm weather. How would you convince a dedicated summer open-air fan that an outdoor daytime event in the snow at 2,000 metres altitude is an experience they absolutely have to try?
Stunning alpine scenery, a completely different atmosphere and the chance to experience something new. It's all about curiosity — some people have it, some don't. We naturally attract those who are willing to try something different.
Combining a full day of skiing or snowboarding with a full night of dancing requires serious energy. How does this shared, intense physical experience shape the mood and the bond of the crowd in Leysin?
It really comes down to the individual. Some pace themselves, some go all out. Ski, snowboard or party as much or as little as you like. The key is simply enjoying the experience your own way. And yes, people experience different things during the day and connect in all kinds of environments. It's not just bonding on the dancefloor — it's sharing a ride down the slopes or a drink high up in the mountains.
The demand for highly curated destination festivals is growing incredibly fast globally. Looking three to five years ahead, how do you see Shapes evolving — and what will the next generation of festival-tourists be looking for?
We want to ensure that the spirit Shapes was built on remains intact over the years. While we aim to welcome more people, it will never be a question of quantity over quality. Shapes will always be for those seeking a different, more meaningful festival experience.
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Shapes Festival — Leysin
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An independent electronic music & festival researcher with 10+ years in the global dance scene.
