On Friday evening, the campus of the University of Graz was transformed into a lively festival zone full of creative vibes and inspiring encounters. Together with La Strada, a programme was developed that seamlessly blended artistic performances with exciting insights into science and exclusive campus tours.
"Science thrives on openness, curiosity and the courage to break new ground," says Rector Peter Riedler. "As the University of Graz, we are more than just a place of knowledge. We are a space for ideas, encounters and social renewal. Together with our students, teachers, researchers and partners, we are shaping the future – with good vibes and lots of creativity."
Construction sites and research
A look behind the scenes showed how much the University of Graz is committed to the future: guided tours of the construction sites of the Graz Centre of Physics and the House of Education provided an insight into the innovative teaching and research of tomorrow. Scientists from various disciplines gave short presentations showing how innovative research playfully overcomes boundaries.
Numerous prominent figures from politics, science and business also attended the event, including Karlheinz Kornhäusl, Member of the provincial Government, Deputy Mayor Judith Schwendtner, City Councillor Günter Riegler, Auxiliary Bishop Johannes Freitag, AK President Josef Pesserl and FWF President Christoph Gattringer.
Circus and music
The brass band "Red Line Crossers" provided entertainment on campus, performance artist Lucas de Man explored "democracy fitness," and the artists of the "Le Doux Supplice" company thrilled the audience with a spectacular circus performance in which the audience became part of the show. The diversity of the campus could be experienced in the Botanical Garden and the IDea_Lab, where actress Nora Winkler and stage artist Alexander Benke created two performative guided tours. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the cult Graz band Candlelight Ficus Extended, which turned the inner courtyard of the main building into a pulsating dance floor.
In addition to art and knowledge, culinary delights were also on offer. The Uni Café, The Underground Kitchen, the Libresso coffee house and the KF Erde provided food and drink. On the south lawn, the ÖH spritzer stand and the Mexican stand Nandos were open for night owls. And those who wanted to continue dancing after the Uni Vibes programme could party and dance together until the early hours of the morning at the after-show party in the PPC.