After two successful editions of the Nieuwe Nor Nacht Academy, the concept is getting a new name, a new look, and an expanded program. From September 2026, the initiative will continue as Nacht Academy, a talent development program for (future) organizers, programmers, and creators within dance and night culture. With extra sessions in Maastricht and closer collaboration with muziekgieterij, the scope of the program is being further expanded.
Nacht Academy is aimed at anyone who wants to learn more about organizing dance events and building a sustainable career within night culture. During five sessions at Nieuwe Nor, participants will encounter all facets of the profession: from programming and production to marketing, finance, safety, and community building.
New this year are three additional in-depth sessions in Maastricht, organized in collaboration with muziekgieterij. These sessions focus on current developments within the night circuit and are not only interesting for new talent, but also for professionals who have been active in the sector for some time. The in-depth sessions are offered in English, making them accessible to a broader international audience.
The expansion follows a successful year for the academy. In 2025, the then Nieuwe Nor Nacht Academy won the Limburg Pop Prize in the Best Initiative category, a recognition of the program’s contribution to the development of music and night culture in Limburg.
“The rebranding to Nacht Academy is the next logical step to increase our impact on Limburg’s night culture. With this, we claim our role in the province and strengthen the collaboration with Maastricht and muziekgieterij. Together, we are building the creators who will define the sound of tomorrow.” — Brent Bemelen, Nieuwe Nor
“The future of nightlife lies not only on the dance floor, but also behind the scenes. With Nacht Academy, we give new creators, organizers, and programmers the knowledge, network, and confidence to make their ideas a reality. We are proud to work with Nieuwe Nor to build a stronger and more connected night culture in Limburg.” — Mitch Loomans, muziekgieterij
Programma
- September 16, 2026 — session 1 at Nieuwe Nor
- September 30, 2026 — session 1 at MG
- October 14, 2026 — session 2 at Nieuwe Nor
- November 11, 2026 — session 3 at Nieuwe Nor
- November 25, 2026 — session 2 at MG
- December 9, 2026 — session 4 at Nieuwe Nor
- January 13, 2027 — session 5 at Nieuwe Nor
- January 27, 2027 – session 3 at MG
Sign up
Registration is possible from the publication of this press release until July 10, 2026, via the online registration form:
There are a limited number of spots available for Nacht Academy. Therefore, participants are selected through a selection procedure. Based on their motivation, experience, and ambitions, a diverse group will be formed that can optimally benefit from the program and learn from each other.
After the registration period, selected participants will receive notice regarding their participation in the program.
About Nacht Academy
Nacht Academy is a talent development program by Nieuwe Nor, developed for the next generation of creators, organizers, and professionals within dance and night culture. Through knowledge sharing, practical experience, and connection with professionals in the field, the program contributes to a strong and future-proof night culture in Limburg.