Research often forms the starting point for artistic development. In the early stages of a creation, or when artists want to reinvent themselves, there is a need for time and space: to search, to try, and perhaps to start over a few times.
With this formula, ECDF offers artists and companies the opportunity to drop anchor at Circushaven with their own research question. Through dialogue, we explore how this question ties in with our core values and what support is meaningful and desirable.
This formula differs mainly in terms of duration and intensity. It involves longer projects that offer artists continuity, enabling them to work on their oeuvre in a sustainable manner and in real depth.
Those who sign up for this formula are expected to make a clearly substantiated choice for a specific research direction. We also invite you to think about how you can give something back to the stimulating environment and the meeting point that we cultivate within our organization.
Within the formula, we distinguish between two phases:
Phase 1: Research
In this first phase, the focus is explicitly not on the artistic end product, but rather on the search that can form the basis for new ideas that can strengthen the artist’s oeuvre—and, by extension, perhaps also the circus sector—from the ground up. We are keen to provide space for artists who want to engage in cross-pollination with other disciplines, target groups, and sectors.
Phase 2: the creative process
We provide the necessary breathing space again when the artist or company is ready to start the actual creative process. We bring calm and clarity to the process, creating more space for creation, dramaturgy, scenography, and ongoing reflection.
Support within this formula
This formula is rolled out over a period of four weeks at a time. The artists in question can indicate whether they want to record it in one continuous period or spread it out over a longer period. Within this formula, we provide:
- A co-production process and budget
- Space for creation and overnight stays
- Coaching from the ECDF team
- Connection with other players active in the Circushaven (including mentoring artists)
- Reimbursement of transportation costs
- The opportunity and support to organize try-outs for an audience within the Circushaven
Depth formula #1: Circumstances & hetpaleis with SHIFT
For the first edition of this in-depth formula, Circumstances will moor in our Circushaven, in preparation for the performance SHIFT (6+), which will premiere in 2027.
More news coming soon!
