Artistic Freedom & Social Responsibility
Paradiso has always been more than just a stage. Since its founding in the 1960s, it has been a place where music, art, social reflection, and activism converge. The space we provide for free expression is rooted in the idea that culture can also be a form of resistance, change, and imagination.
Activism is in our DNA. We recognize that cultural creators can play an important role in raising social issues. At the same time, we see it as our responsibility to ensure that Paradiso remains an open, inclusive, and safe space for everyone.
The next principles and assesment criteria provide Paradiso guidance in situations where an artist or performance may come into conflict with that balance.
Principles
Paradiso upholds the following principles:
- Artistic and social expression are inseparably linked in our history and programming
- We strive to provide a safe and inclusive space for everyone, regardless of background, identity, or belief
- We protect space for critical voices, but we set clear boundaries against expressions that incite hate, exclusion, or violence
- We take our role as a cultural institution seriously, and we make decisions with care, transparency, and social awareness
Assessment Criteria
An artist or performance may be subject to review when there are credible concerns regarding:
- Structural or repeated discriminatory, racist, sexist, antisemitic, homophobic, or transphobic statements
- Structural or repeated calls for, or glorification of, violence, hatred, or terrorism
- Proven involvement in serious misconduct (abuse, harassment, etc.)
- Behavior or language on social media that is in direct conflict with Paradiso’s values
- Risk of public disorder or threats to the safety of visitors or staff