Dancing Words – Spoken Dance in Suriname

February 18, 2025
by MP Wong

From February 17 to 21, Introdans, in collaboration with the Ilonka Elmont Foundation and Bureau Speciaal Onderwijs, is organizing a special project week in Paramaribo, Suriname. This is made possible by the ELJA Foundation with support from Fonds Kind & Handicap.

During Dancing Words – Spoken Dance, 50 children and young people with physical and/or intellectual disabilities will have the opportunity to express themselves creatively through dance and spoken word.

Art as a Unifying Force
Dance and spoken word are powerful tools for expression and connection. Throughout the week, students from Mytylschool Suriname, Jule Fernandes School, and SO Lamtoro will work intensively with Dutch and Surinamese artists.

They will learn to use their bodies and language to tell their own stories, drawing inspiration from their personal experiences.

Dutch choreographers Adriaan Luteijn and Chantal de Vries from Introdans will share their expertise in inclusive dance education, while spoken word artist Georgios Lazakis and breakdancer/filmmaker Divano Rommers will provide creative input in language and movement.

On the Surinamese side, spoken word artist Koloku, breakdancer Fally van Gennip, and percussionist Elijiah Cairo will bring their unique perspectives. This collaboration creates a dynamic learning environment where dance, poetry, and rhythm merge.

Collaboration for Inclusion
Introdans has over 25 years of experience in inclusive dance education and mentors a new generation of dance teachers and artists in working with diverse groups.

The Ilonka Elmont Foundation, with its expertise in sports and movement, leverages this knowledge to further develop inclusive cultural programs in Suriname.

Fonds Kind & Handicap and Bureau Speciaal Onderwijs support this initiative through their commitment to children and young people with disabilities.

Together, these organizations strive for a lasting improvement in the accessibility of arts and culture for all young people in Suriname.

Workshops and Performances
During the project week, students will participate in workshops led by the involved artists and dance instructors. The week will conclude with celebratory presentations on February 19 and 21, 2025, where participants will showcase their newly acquired skills to classmates, teachers, and invited guests.

With Dancing Words – Spoken Dance, the organizers aim not only to inspire participants but also to contribute to sustainable and inclusive cultural participation in Suriname.

Listen to Episode 04 of the Introdans Podcast – Introdans at the Paramaripodcast [Dutch only]>>

Pictures project Surinam

+3
+2

Stay up to date