Turning the intangible into unforgettable experiences is a rare art, one that Vasileios Tsokas perfected at Tashas. Through his masterful soundscapes, he weaves the invisible thread that transforms every moment into a lasting memory.
In this exclusive interview with EDMNOMAD, Tsokas shares his insights on how, in the vibrant and ever-evolving city of Dubai, hospitality venues compete not just with cuisine but on ambiance.
Vasileios Tsokas, Group Entertainment Director at Tashas Group, stands at the forefront of music curation—a process that elevates guest experiences from ordinary to extraordinary.
His meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to creating timeless atmospheres transforms the group’s venues into sanctuaries where music goes beyond sound… It’s the soul of the experience.
A Love Affair with Music
For Vasileios Tsokas, music is more than sound—it’s a language that connects cultures and evokes deep emotion. Raised in a Greek home filled with melodies, his love for music went beyond listening.
“Music is a universal language with various dialects everyone can understand,” Vasileios shares, likening music to art’s ability to speak directly to the soul. “Art is a feeling; it’s a memory that stays with you forever as a legacy,” he adds.
This deep passion defined Vasileios’ 22-year career, merging music with hospitality. With formal education in music theory, composition, and sound engineering, he became Group Entertainment Director at Tashas Group, where music is central to guest experiences.
“Music is a plate you never ordered but will always digest,” Vasileios reflects, highlighting how music enriches every tashas experience. Whether dining or lounging, music adds depth and emotion, transforming simple moments into memorable experiences.
For Vasileios, music is about creating emotional and sensory memories that linger.
Atmosphere of Emotion
Tashas Group transcends trends by creating immersive atmospheres through music, crafting memorable guest experiences. Each venue, from Flamingo Room by tashas to Galaxy Bar, is meticulously curated to evoke specific emotions.
“You have to make guests feel what you want them to feel aesthetically,” the entertainment curator explains, highlighting the group’s focus on unique and lasting experiences.
The venues split into two categories: live entertainment spaces like Galaxy Bar, where performances set the tone, and all-day restaurants like Avli by tashas, enhanced by curated, live-streamed music.
A unified artistic vision ensures consistency across all locations while maintaining each venue’s distinct identity. “As our CEO Natasha Sideris always says, we mind our own yard, not what others do,” shares Vasileios Tsokas, who oversees tashas’ sonic experience.
It needs to be unique; Bungalo34 blends Italian and French melodies, while Galaxy Bar evolves into an electronic music hub, creating unforgettable guest experiences through distinctive sonic branding.
Tsokas emphasizes timeless artistry over fleeting trends. “If it doesn’t have a positive response in your brain, it’s not aesthetically correct,” he notes, focusing on music that leaves a lasting impact and makes every visit a unique journey.
Perfecting Digital Soundscapes
At Tashas Group, music is central to the atmosphere, shaping the unique vibe of each outlet. Each venue, whether it’s Bungalo34 or Galaxy Bar, uses soundscapes that reflect its unique identity.
Evoking beachside bliss, “Expect about 80% Italian tunes with a touch of French influence,” Vasileios Tsokas shares describing the signature sound at a tashas venture, Bungalo34.
While curated playlists set the foundation, live entertainment at venues like Galaxy Bar and African Lounge adds an evolving energy.
DJs and performers bring spontaneity, yet their performances are carefully aligned with the venue’s aesthetic. “This balance of predictability and spontaneity ensures that guests always encounter something new while staying connected to the venue’s vibe,” Tsokas notes.
Even in venues without live entertainment, such as tashas café, music streamed from a global server maintains consistency. To create an immersive audio experience, Tsokas collaborated with L-Acoustics to design sound systems that enhance the music’s precision.
Tashas Group also extends the experience beyond its physical spaces with digital playlists. “Each playlist reflects the specific vibe of a venue or event,” Tsokas explains.
“We focus on BPM and the feel of a live DJ set, recreating the venue’s unique atmosphere.” These playlists allow guests to relive their experiences, transporting them back to memorable moments from their visit.
The Birth of Supernovas
An ambitious project led by Vasileios Tsokas is the Supernovas program at Galaxy Bar, a venue connected to Avli by tashas. This initiative brought world-famous DJs to perform for 100 VIP guests, positioning Galaxy Bar as a leader in global entertainment.
“The Supernovas initiative presented significant creative opportunities and relevant challenges for our entire team,” the entertainment curator reflects. Managing logistics—coordinating international artists from the UK, Spain, Greece, and South Africa—required precision and adaptability.
Despite these hurdles, the program was a resounding success. Hosting artists like Kasango, Dacapo, and Kitty Amor elevated Galaxy Bar’s reputation, offering an arena-sized experience in an intimate setting.
Building Success on a Global Perspective
For those aspiring to thrive in the entertainment and hospitality industry, Vasileios offers invaluable advice: stamina, resilience, and adaptability. “Dubai thrives on flexibility and offers abundant opportunities,” he notes.
Success in this fast-paced environment demands perseverance, a commitment to growth, and a focus on the human aspect of hospitality. “Hospitality is for people by people. You need to cover your fears, cover your anger, and move forward.”
Vasileios’ global experiences in cities like Paris, London, and Frankfurt further emphasize the importance of staying open to new ideas and embracing cultural diversity. “Experiencing diverse cultures and entertainment scenes has reinforced the importance of keeping an open mind and ear,” he shares.
This openness, combined with resilience, is key to maintaining the innovative edge that defines Tashas Group venues. Together, these qualities ensure that those working in hospitality can adapt, evolve, and succeed in a constantly changing industry.
Visions of the Future
Music forms the soul of every Tashas Group venue, according to Vasileios Tsokas. It’s a vital force that turns each visit into an unforgettable memory.
His thoughtful curation transforms the guest experience into an art form, where each song weaves a resonant atmosphere. “Music isn’t just background noise—it’s the venue’s soul, the invisible thread connecting everything,” he reflects.
Looking ahead, Tsokas focuses on innovation, not just maintaining the status quo. “We’re always looking for new ways to improve and create unique experiences for our guests,” Vasileios adds. This approach embraces new technologies, fresh genres, and a deeper integration of music into the guest journey.
A key element of this vision is ensuring his team feels valued. Tashas Group’s Entertainment Director notes, “without a motivated and valued team, growth is impossible.”
One of his most exciting upcoming projects is the next wave of the Supernovas program at Galaxy Bar.
Coming back to Dubai this winter, it will feature renowned international artists and a stellar lineup. Highlighting his commitment to pushing the boundaries of hospitality entertainment, the program encapsulates exclusivity and sonic intimacy.
Under Vasileios Tsokas’ leadership, Tashas Group continues to redefine the role of music in hospitality.
He has proven that memories are as rich as the melodies that shape them.
