Scapino Ballet Rotterdam

Scapino Ballet Rotterdam, a cornerstone of the contemporary dance scene in the Netherlands, has undergone a remarkable evolution since its founding in 1945. Originally focused on performances for young audiences, the company has continually enriched its choreographic language. The arrival of Ed Wubbe as Artistic Director in 1992 marked a turning point, enabling Scapino Ballet to expand its repertoire and attract a broader audience. The company has since gained international recognition through its innovative productions, which seamlessly blend contemporary dance with elements of opera and circus.

In September 2024, Scapino Ballet embarks on an exciting new chapter with the appointment of Nanine Linning as Artistic Director. Linning, a celebrated Dutch choreographer, is renowned for her multidisciplinary approach, which fuses dance with visual arts, fashion, and technology. Her work is distinguished by its intense physicality, emotional depth, and striking visual impact.

Nanine Linning’s connection to Scapino Ballet runs deep; she spent six formative years as a resident artist with the company, honing her choreographic voice. She later expanded her artistic vision as the director of theaters in Osnabrück and Heidelberg, Germany, while collaborating with esteemed companies such as Bayerisches Staatsballett, Boston Ballet, Gauthier Dance, and Stuttgart Ballet.

Linning’s return to Rotterdam has generated significant excitement, infusing Scapino Ballet with renewed innovative energy. Under her leadership, the company is set to explore new creative horizons and continue captivating audiences with visually stunning, boundary-pushing performances.

The 2024/2025 season heralds a new era for Scapino Ballet under the direction of Nanine Linning.

Returning to the company’s repertoire, the piece Cathedral by Spanish choreographer Marcos Morau, created in 2019 and set to the music of Arvo Pärt, will be featured in Scapino Ballet Rotterdam’s national and international tours.

Additionally, Origin, a program developed by three emerging choreographic artists under Nanine Linning’s supervision, will be showcased in major theaters across the Netherlands.

Nanine Linning will debut her first production as Artistic Director of Scapino Ballet Rotterdam with Anima Obscura, in May 2025. Set to the music of Johannes Brahms and Yannis Kyriakides, the piece delves into the quest for immortality, crafting a captivating blend of theatrical and digital experiences.

The company will be prominently featured across the Netherlands throughout the season, with more than 70 performances of the productions Cathedral, Origin, and Anima Obscura.

« A compelling evening that pinpoints what Scapino is good at; combining various performing arts into accessible new ways. »

Lambrecht Wessels, Bachtrack