Creation 2026 (working title)

Rhythm connects us inextricably to the world. It is everywhere – in our steps, in our language, in our emotions, in life itself. Since ancient times, when it served as a mnemonic aid for reciting poetry, rhythm has been used to bring people together: from the chanting of monks to a folk dance cadence. 

For her new creation, Femke Gyselinck forges family ties with brother and musician Lander Gyselinck. They once created a duet – the 2016 show Flamer – within which they reversed roles: with Femke as drummer and Lander as dancer. This time they invite seven dancers and four musicians on stage and they each set the rhythm for their own discipline. At a time when dance and culture are under pressure they make a bold statement committing to a group creation: ‘the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.’

In this performance, rhythm is much more than just a component of the music. It is the foundation on which music and dance come together. The patterns of sounds and silences aid in remembering and singing, playing, or drumming in a group. And they make dancing possible.