News

💥 Alexander Vantournhout wins Ultima Performing Arts Award

"The work of Alexander Vantournhout and his company not standing transcends the boundaries of disciplines and creates a unique and hybrid movement language. It is an ode to physical intelligence and the consistent dedication it requires. It is masterful balance art that sharpens all your senses."

With these words, the expert jury nominates Alexander Vantournhout as the laureate for the Ultima Performing Arts 2023. The full jury report can be consulted here (in Dutch). Every year, the Flemish Government awards 13 cultural laureates with an Ultima. The Ultimas are quality labels through which the government expresses recognition for the cultural importance of the laureates' work. Moreover, they act as stimuli for various cultural disciplines and enhance cultural awareness.

Alexander accepted the award earlier this week during the live show, which you can rewatch on VRT.MAX.

"What an honor! This Ultima invites one to reflect on the journey thus far. After 10 years of creating work, I am grateful to receive an award that acknowledges 9 creations with 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 company. I find myself thinking back to when I was 18 years old, mainly inspired by street theatre and sports, and wondering what I would have thought then. My work has always fallen between categories; it was neither this nor that. In the past, this ambiguity also had repercussions on commissions, as it led to not being represented... Can it be both? Just as a painter thinks in terms of colours, lines, and planes, can I think in terms of movement, objects, and partner relationships, rather than confining myself to genres like dance, circus, or theatre? (...) I am grateful for all the people who have supported and collaborated with me along the way, and I look forward to continuing to create and meet new and existing audiences."