December 18 2025

Introdans mourns the passing of Hans van Manen (1932–2025). With his death, we lose one of the greatest choreographers the art of dance has ever produced. Hans van Manen was a brilliant source of inspiration, a sharp-minded artist and a creator who fundamentally changed dance, in the Netherlands and far beyond. His work is praised for its clarity, musicality and human power, and continues to move generations of dancers and audiences.

We are deeply grateful for everything Hans van Manen has meant to our company. Our collaboration began thirty years ago with the ballet Ajakaboembie (1995) and grew into a rich artistic relationship. Over the years, many iconic works became part of our repertoire, including Black Cake, Polish Pieces, Squares, In the Future, Compositie, In and Out and Andante.

By reviving these ballets, we continue to give Hans van Manen’s oeuvre new life. His work remains in motion, carried forward by new generations of dancers who pass on his language, precision and expressive power. The charismatic presence of Hans van Manen in the studio — his sharp eye, his humour and his impeccable sense of timing — will be deeply missed by many.

His legacy lives on on stage and in everything he has left to the art of dance. We cherish his work and will continue to perform it with pride and dedication.

Team Introdans