The beauty of shared responsibility 

Teetering on the edge of burnout, many of us try to carry the weight of the world, doing our best to keep it from crashing down around us – Much like the Greek god Atlas. But is shouldering the burden alone the best approach? In their latest physical performance, Hidde and Koen – also known as the collective ROTOR – invite us to explore a different movement. They were inspired by the work of philosopher Byung-Chul Han. For them, the lesson is clear: we shouldn't follow Atlas’ lonely example, we should bear the burden together. ROTOR lets you experience with all your senses just how liberating this can be. 

Artists and performers Hidde Aans-Verkade and Koen van der Heijden form the creative core of ROTOR. Both trained at the Academy of Theatre and Dance (ATD) in Amsterdam, where a unique physical connection sparked their collaboration. The world of performance collective ROTOR revolves around repeated physical movements. Central to everything they do is the question: what sets ROTOR in motion? This question doesn't just explore the mechanics and inspiration behind movement; it also considers how movement can spark reflection and transformation in the audience. What does ROTOR stir in those who watch them? The body as the starting point, the exhaustion of the performers, the physical involvement of the audience, variation within repetition, and the search for meaning.