Swarm Antes

On October 27, 2022, The Swarm danced for the first time at the psychiatric clinic Antes Poortugaal. A group from the addiction clinic, consisting of both clients and therapists, met with a group of dancers from Swarm. DJ Cheb Runner played a mix of his own music and local hits.

Sylvie de Kubber, counselor at Antes, had invited Swarm. She noted that while there was a lot of conversation in the clinic about problems, there were few opportunities for movement and joy. Beforehand, Sylvie said that if even one person was touched by the Swarm, it would already be a success.

It turned out to be a hit—not just one, but everyone who participated had a joyful experience. Moreover, the joyful dance proved to be contagious, affecting people throughout the grounds and even in the village. A whole daycare center cheered and jumped along from the playground, and an elderly woman danced behind her window. It was a heartwarming experience.

Afterward, participants asked if we could do this every week. Eventually, it became a seasonal event. The experience of dancing in the open air became linked to celebrating the seasons.

Choreography Floor van Leeuwen Mental Health Facilitator Sylvie de Kubber Music Reda Senhaji / DJ Cheb Runner Impact Assessment Samuël van der Spek Experiential Expert Sahra Ahmed Produced by Stichting Leeway Performed at Antes Poortugaal