From February 17-21 2025, Introdans, in collaboration with the Ilonka Elmont Foundation, Fonds Kind & Handicap, and Bureau Speciaal Onderwijs, organized a special project week in Paramaribo, Suriname. During Dancing Words – Spoken Dance, 50 children and young people with physical and/or intellectual disabilities had the opportunity to express themselves creatively through dance and spoken word. This project brought together Dutch and Surinamese artists and choreographers to create an inspiring intercultural exchange.

Dance and spoken word are powerful tools for fostering expression and connection. Throughout the week, students from Mytylschool Suriname, Jule Fernandes School, and SO Lamtoro worked intensively with Dutch and Surinamese artists. They learned to use their bodies and language to tell their own stories and draw inspiration from their personal experiences.

Artistic Initiator for Interaction & Inclusion Adriaan Luteijn and choreographer Chantal de Vries from Introdans shared their expertise in inclusive dance education, while spoken word artist Georgios Lazakis and breakdancer/filmmaker Divano Rommers provided creative input in language and movement. On the Surinamese side, spoken word artist Koloku, breakdancer Fally van Gennip, and percussionist Elijiah Cairo brought their unique perspectives. This collaboration created a dynamic learning environment where dance, poetry, and rhythm merged. After a week full of workshops, the participants presented their stories in a special performance.