Netherlands Summer Arts Programs Highlight Body and Identity

From 17 to 21 August, the Vrije Hogeschool in Zeist hosts a summer week called “The Body in Presence”. Led by choreographer and movement teacher Raúl, the program invites participants to explore the body as a source of creativity, personal development and presence through improvisation, breath work, writing and simple movement exercises. The week is open to anyone, regardless of dance experience, and emphasizes authentic, embodied expression.

From 3 to 15 August, the Plein Theater’s Production House runs an artist‑in‑residence with wearable‑sculpture creator Daphne Karstens. Her research project “Othered Bodies” examines how wearable sculptures can reshape perceptions of the body, identity and societal norms. Inspired by Sara Ahmed’s *Queer Phenomenology*, Karstens works with performers to create “body assemblages” where sculptural garments become active participants in movement, challenging fixed ideas of bodily identity.