Young female dance makers alongside well-known ‘Dutch Masters’
Last night was my first experience with Het National Junior Company through the Made in NL programme. Celebrating its 11th anniversary this year, the Junior Company, currently composed of 17 dancers, serves as a bridge between the Dutch National Ballet Academy and the Dutch National Ballet. As described on their website, it fills the gap between training and professional practice. The company is led by artistic director Ernst Meisner.
MADE in NL featured six dance pieces, blending classical and neo-classical styles: Het Zwanenmeer (Swan Lake), Embers, Sonder, Scurry Night, Ever After, and Visions Fugitives. Each piece had its own identity, giving all dancers the opportunity to perform.
For me, the final three pieces—Scurry Night, Ever After, and Visions Fugitives—stood out as the highlights of the evening.
Visions Fugitives was simply phenomenal. The dancers delivered an exceptional level of technique and emotion, with three couples showcasing striking stage presence, each bringing a distinct personality to the performance. Hans van Manen’s choreography played a crucial role in bringing out their strengths—fast footwork, fluid synchronicity, and boundless energy. Their poses felt like frozen moments, resembling a captured photograph. Originally choreographed in 1990 for Nederlands Dans Theater, this piece remains remarkably innovative even today.
Another standout was Scurry Night, an exhilarating choreography filled with demanding jumps and rapid turns. The use of a balloon, inspired by Banksy’s art, added a unique touch and an element of identity to the piece. The playful atmosphere—enhanced by costumes, music, and quick movements—spotlighted the dancers’ versatility and ability to adapt to diverse choreography styles.
Ever After captivated me with its powerful storytelling. It depicted a couple’s romantic love turning into a haunting nightmare, illustrating how real love may not always match its idealized image. The transition from illusion to reality was beautifully conveyed through the dancers’ gestures. Eva Bakker and Jenson Blight were particularly compelling, delivering an emotionally charged performance that resonated deeply with the audience.
The richness of the programme was impressive, providing the dancers with the opportunity to explore different styles and artistic expressions. Het Zwanenmeer was the only classical ballet in the programme, and while I appreciated its inclusion, I didn’t find it particularly compelling. A stronger emphasis on classical pieces would have better showcased the dancers’ technical abilities.
That said, it was a rewarding experience to witness these young dancers flourish as they transition from the Junior Company to the Dutch National Ballet. Their talent, dedication, and artistry were evident throughout the evening, making it a truly memorable performance. Cicek Isiksel Sonmez in Utrecht, 21st February 2025
Made in NL Sonder Photo © Altin Kaftira
Made in NL continues on tour until 14th March.
