Diversity and accessibility at Introdans are rewarded.

Choreographer Adriaan Luteijn received the very first Cultuurfonds Gelderland Cultuurprijs 2025 last Friday for his groundbreaking, innovative, and inclusive work with the Arnhem-based company Introdans and beyond. As a choreographer and Artistic Initiator for Interaction & Inclusion at Introdans, Luteijn places diversity and accessibility at the heart of his work. He creates productions where professional and non-professional dancers come together. His innovative approach demonstrates how dance can connect people and offer new perspectives—not only in Gelderland but also nationally and internationally. This approach perfectly aligns with Introdans’ mission to inspire as many people as possible to embrace the art of dance. The award was presented on March 21, 2025, in a festive ceremony at Musis & Stadstheater Arnhem by Daniël Wigboldus, the new King’s Commissioner in Gelderland.”In his productions, Adriaan brings together different worlds and people. Apparent contrasts are bridged, and physicality gains a new dimension. Dance tells the story of connection. Adriaan’s work not only impacts the dance world in Gelderland, nationally, and internationally. His approach also opens new perspectives for participants and audiences,” said the jury.Roel Voorintholt, Artistic Director of Introdans: “What makes his approach so special is that Adriaan doesn’t focus on what people can’t do or their limitations but rather on what they can do. Time and again, this results in touching and inspiring gems.”

About the Gelderland Cultuurfonds awards
The Cultuurfonds Gelderland Cultuurprijs and Cultuurfonds Gelderland Natuurprijs were created to recognize outstanding contributions to Gelderland’s culture and nature. They replace the Gelderse Pauwenveer and Gelderse Bokaal, which were previously awarded alternately. Anyone in Gelderland could nominate candidates, and the winners were selected by expert juries in the fields of culture and nature.

The power of Introdans
For over 50 years, Introdans has inspired as many people as possible to embrace dance—with heart, soul, and exceptional craftsmanship. The Arnhem-based company represents leading dance heritage, contemporary classics for young audiences, interactive projects, and new works by emerging creators. As a touring repertory company, they are influential not only in the region but also on a (inter)national level. With an energetic and dynamic dance language, they appeal to a broad audience.Introdans believes in the power of dance—dance as empowerment. It opens up new worlds and connects people with their imagination and with each other. Since its founding in 1971, the company has used the power of dance for social impact. This intrinsic motivation is part of their DNA, as is the belief that everyone deserves to be seen and valued as they are. Over the past 25 years, as a pioneer and developer of interaction and inclusion, Introdans has initiated a movement that is now an indispensable part of the dance landscape.