Nymphs

Nymphs. Originally mythical creatures that lived in forests, streams, mountains and the sea. They symbolized the wild, unpredictable, therefore pure beauty of nature. The nymph was the representative of freedom, of opulence and sensuality. Unstoppable desire was the fate that awaited anyone who faced them. An inescapable charm due to their identity: open honesty as it only exists in nature. Today, “nymph” is a derogatory term for a female temptress. A man-eater who doesn't shy away from using her sensuality to get her prey. Someone you have to watch out for as a man. But who says a man cannot be a nymph himself? Is sensuality really that gender-specific? And isn't it better to embrace that sensual side, instead of avoiding it.

In Nymphs, five dancers are in search of their own natural beauty, like in the myths. In search of their honest identity. But is it really that easy to define who you are? Are you truly holding up a mirror to yourself, or are you constantly mirroring the expectations around you? The dancers look for forms to express the unexpected truths of their gender identity, but are constantly fighting the norm. A standard that only continues to exist by upholding everyone's prejudices. Is it possible to transcend these kinds of boxes, or will you just end up in a new box? Entangled in this web of social constructions and expectations, the dancers move towards connection.

After premiering in May 2022, Nymphs won Mittelyoung Festival (IT) and received the audience award at Delft Fringe Festival (NL). Any upcoming performance dates may be found here.