This section of phaeno has recently been given a new look: Kai Korbel has joined us as an events manager and is responsible for ensuring that every enquiry turns into an unforgettable experience. We spoke to him about how he got started, his goals and why a science centre might be the most unusual – but also the most exciting – venue for events.
“Actually, I’ve never really been away.”
Kai Korbel: I was born and bred in Wolfsburg – so in that sense, things have come full circle for me. Before joining phaeno, I spent the last few years working in southern Germany for the Liebherr Group. There, I was jointly responsible for corporate architecture – in other words, for strategic brand communication in physical spaces, such as at trade fair stands. Now I’m back where it all began, with a completely new role.
It was precisely this contrast that appealed to me: at phaeno, knowledge, architecture and emotion come together in a way you won’t find anywhere else. When you walk through the exhibition spaces or stand beneath the cones, you realise straight away: this is no ordinary venue. Harnessing that impact for guests and customers – that was my real motivation for making the move.
To be honest, it feels great. I know Wolfsburg, I know the people here, and of course I used to visit phaeno as a child and teenager. It’s all the more wonderful now to look at this special building from the other side and to play an active part in ensuring that others have experiences here that are just as special as the ones I used to have as a visitor.
“We have facilities here that other venues don’t offer.”
It’s the combination of architecture, technology and content. At phaeno, you’re not just hiring a room – you’re booking an atmospheric experience. The interactive science landscape, the venues, the open Conehall, the Science Theatre with its impressive technical facilities: all of this can be individually incorporated into an event. No two rooms are alike, and that’s exactly what makes it so exciting for me as an event manager. I put together a bespoke package for every enquiry, rather than offering an ‘off-the-shelf’ venue.
To a very wide range of people, to be honest. We receive enquiries for traditional corporate and Christmas parties, anniversaries, special gala evenings and team-building events, as well as for conferences, congresses, product launches, birthdays and weddings.
Companies in the region, in particular, appreciate being able to offer their guests something special. Whether it’s seminars, workshops, concerts, readings, theatre and performing arts, or award ceremonies: if you really want to impress employees, business partners or customers, phaeno is the place to go.
Depending on the requirements, a very central one indeed. This is because the science theatre is exceptionally well equipped technically – lighting, sound, stage technology; everything is of a standard that you don’t find everywhere in this form. With the technology in place, it’s even possible to set up a studio for a recording or a live stream in no time at all. Even international, hybrid event formats can be staged here.
It’s the perfect setting for lectures, award ceremonies or even spectacular show elements such as our experimental shows. Many clients are surprised by just how professional these facilities are once they’ve experienced the venue in person.
The very first event always sticks in your mind: a client event with around 100 people had booked the ‘phaeno Special’ – complete with a small bar and drinks service. For me, it was a real highlight to see adults rediscovering their playful side. The giant pinball machine was a big hit. But so were the Tilted Room and the Vertigo Tunnel, where guests’ senses were put to the test. It’s wonderful to see the enthusiasm that builds up amongst the guests. At phaeno, we manage to forge connections between people and create shared experiences.
“phaeno needs to become much more prominent as an event venue”
On the one hand, my aim is to raise awareness of the many possibilities we have here. I believe many companies in the region aren’t even aware of how flexible and professional we are – particularly with the upcoming Christmas party season in mind. Secondly, I’d like to nurture existing contacts and develop new formats that link phaeno’s themes – science, technology, wonder and inspiration – even more closely with the concept of events. If you’re looking for events that will be remembered for a long time to come, phaeno is the perfect place.
I see phaeno as one of the most spectacular event venues in the region.
I do have a few ideas, but I’m also consciously still in the phase of listening and experimenting. One thing is clear: I want to move away from the traditional ‘room with a projector’ towards events that actively incorporate our experimental landscape and our science theatre – small show elements at corporate parties, for example, or interactive programme items at conferences that you simply can’t find anywhere else. With the options we’ve offered so far, such as ‘Reaching for the Sky with Kapla’, ‘Mini-golf’ or our ‘phaeno Special’, we certainly have a solid foundation on which to build further.
New content that could also appeal to smaller teams, groups or clubs is also in the pipeline. We’ve already got something concrete lined up for precisely these target groups in December.
During the Advent season, we’re opening our Ideas Forum for a special chocolate workshop, where participants carry out every step of the process themselves, from the cocoa bean right through to the finished bar. At the end, they receive their own chocolate and can compare its flavour with that of industrially produced chocolate. As a further treat, you’ll then have the entire exhibition space all to yourselves – complete with the Fire Tornado, of course. Thanks to our fantastic partners, we also offer the option of an exclusive dinner amidst the exhibition displays, naturally with a chocolate theme.
Just pop round and experience phaeno for yourself, have a look at the spaces at your leisure. It’s hard to imagine the impact of this architecture until you’ve actually been inside it yourself. And then we’d be happy to discuss together how we can turn your idea into a concept that suits your company and the occasion. With our strong network of partners, we can make almost anything happen … and if WE aren’t open to new ideas, who will be? 😉
We’d like to thank Kai for the open discussion and look forward to lots of new ideas and phenomenal events. If you’re thinking about hosting your next company party, Christmas party or conference at phaeno, you can find all the information about the venues and options at www.phaeno.de/eventlocation or simply get in touch with us directly: events@phaeno.de
