Amaze founder and director Thorsten Wiedemann has “stepped back” and apologized, admitting in a public statement that he had “acted inappropriately” and was “verbally offensive” towards colleagues and guests at an event in August.
In a statement, the organisation – which celebrates independent and arthouse games, immersive media, and digital culture – acknowledged “violations” of its safe space policy and code of conduct occurred in Sheffield, UK.
Citing “serious concerns about the safety and integrity of [its] events,” the Amaze Berlin team confirmed it had investigated “different instances of unprofessional behavior leading up to the event and inappropriate conduct, as well as offensive verbal comments and non-sexual harassment under the influence of alcohol during the event.”
Calling such behavior “unacceptable,” the team apologized to “all members of the Sheffield production, the performers, DJs, artists, venue workers, and visitors who were affected.”
Wiedemann also individually apologized, stating: “I want to sincerely apologize for my behavior at Amaze Sheffield in August 2024. Reflecting on my actions, I recognize that I acted inappropriately and will take full responsibility. I yelled at the production and organizing team when the party was shut down, which was completely disrespectful. I was verbally offensive towards a participating DJ and their music, which was uncalled for. I invaded others’ personal space, which was inconsiderate and out of line.
“I deeply regret my behavior throughout the event and understand how it negatively impacted others. This was entirely wrong, and I am committed to learning from this experience to ensure it never happens again and try to repair what got broken.
“To those affected, and to the Amaze Berlin team and community, I’m sorry for betraying your trust. I am grateful to those who came forward and reported the incidents,” Wiedemann added.
“As a consequence, I will step back from my role in this year’s Berlin festival program and pause all representative and handover partner duties. This will allow the team the space to strengthen our Safer Space policies and ensure the integrity of all future events.”
Wiedemann added that Amaze was founded to “create a respectful, inclusive, and inspiring space within the games and cultural industries,” stating: “That mission remains unchanged. Misconduct – whether by guests, team members, or myself – has no place in this community.”
As a consequence of the upheld complaint, Wiedemann will “temporarily step back” from all “public roles” and will not attend the Amaze Berlin 2025 program.
The organisation has also decentralized the decision-making process and delegated key responsibilities, committing to creating safer spaces, ensuring all events adhere to its code of conduct, and updating its emergency response structure.
“Amaze is more than one person,” Wiedemann concluded. “It’s a global movement built by many. I hope that during my absence, you will give me the opportunity to improve and learn from my mistakes so that we can continue working toward our vision—bringing diverse artists from around the world together and elevating arthouse games to a new level.”