Flandria-Euskadi: Dance and Community

Molenbeek and Errenteria, Errenteria and Molenbeek. One in the Brussels region, the other in Gipuzkoa. Despite being 1000 kilometers apart, they share many similarities: multiculturalism, a multi-ethnic population, and a post-industrial socio-economic landscape. Alongside are various local and cross-sectoral initiatives within the community. Plus, both locations boast a centre for choreography: Ultima Vez in Molenbeek and Dantzaz in Errenteria. Drawing upon their shared characteristics, the two cities initiated ´Dance and Community,´ an exchange project centered around collaborative approaches. After working on methods in both Molenbeek and Errenteria, a publication aimed at disseminating procedures and outcomes will be shared among other cultural and social organizations. Founded by choreographer, director and filmmaker Wim Vandekeybus, Ultima Vez is an international dance company based in Sint-Jans-Molenbeek. Based in Errenteria, Dantzaz is involved in advancing the dance sector´s professionalism within the Basque Country, while also focusing on mediation, participatory endeavors, and innovative projects. 

Dantzaz 

Dantzaz is housed at Gipuzkoako Dantzagune (a resource hub that promotes dance initiatives and supports individuals in the field of dance). Here, action, mediation, meeting with the community and accompanying artistic processes go hand in hand. Dantzaz not only promotes employment and professionalisation, but also encourages creation and research, providing opportunities for performers and choreographers worldwide. Dantzaz provides artistic residencies, various contracts, grants, and also supports mediation and innovation projects to cultivate new audiences. 

Ultima vez 

Located in Sint-Jans-Molenbeek, Brussels, Ultima Vez, created by choreographer Wim Vandekeybus, serves as the hub for contemporary dance. This space facilitates optimal conditions for production and distribution while fostering the exchange of artistic practices among creators and a broad audience. The center engages in artistic creations by Wim Vandekeybus, features a programme for emerging creators (Ulti ´Mates), and hosts interactive activities.