Openingsprogramma Poetry International x Conny Janssen Danst

Poetry International opens the festival weekend on Thursday evening 12 June with a unique poetry experience in which top poets from all over the world share the stage with some of the best dancers in the Netherlands. During the opening programme you will get a sneak preview of the poets of the festival in 60 minutes, you can secretly choose your favourites and thus map out your own route for the festival!

Each year, Poetry International asks a director or choreographer to create a unique theatrical setting for the official opening, inspired by the festival theme. This year, we are proud and excited that renowned choreographer Conny Janssen will not only bring the poets together, but also connect them with the dancers of Conny Janssen Danst.

Conny Janssen

Janssen is known for the physical and theatrical power of her dancers and the diversity of her performances. For the opening programme of Poetry International, Conny Janssen will create a one-off poetic translation of her recent performance ZIEL—a powerful work about humanity, resilience and the elusive inner landscape. Expect an immersive experience in which dance and poetry come together in a way that only exists in this moment and on this stage.