The Debate of Dutch Dance

Creating Dance in a World on Fire 

This year, we turn our attention to the dilemmas of creating dance in a world on fire. The world as we know it is vanishing before our very eyes – and hands. Threats to peace, freedom, democracy, equality, human rights, tolerance, biodiversity, science, the climate, international law, and solidarity are increasingly shaping our daily reality.

How are choreographers and dance professionals responding to this crumbling world? What dilemmas do they face along the way? And what unique role can dance – the art of the body and movement – play in shaping public debate? What has been the role of protest in dance, past and present? These and many other questions will be explored under the guidance of moderator Lene Grooten. 

Call to Action: Proposal from the Dance Sector for the 2029–2032 Cultural Policy 

Alongside the theme discussion, we will also highlight the latest Call to Action. The decision-making process for the 2025–2028 cultural period failed to deliver what the dance sector needs for a vibrant dance landscape. In May, working together with a broad coalition from across the dance community, we developed a new Call to Action. 

This document is an urgent appeal to the incoming Minister of Education, Culture and Science to incorporate, within the framework of the current system, a set of improvements that can help secure a healthy and future-proof dance ecosystem in the next cultural policy period. The full Call to Action is available on our website.