“I have to change to stay the same” (Willem de Kooning)

Dance repertoire is living material that is not only passed on, but often also shaken up, transformed and questioned. It is not a finished story or a relic that needs to be treated with special care. Every time we take a fresh look at a chapter of our dance history, we also have the opportunity to add new perspectives and voices. History is never finished. What's more, history is full of possibilities and inspiration!

Body of Work 2026 - Re:pertoire, the first thematic edition of STUK's festival for living dance heritage, shows how diverse and dynamic the approach to repertoire and dance heritage can and ought to be. We dive into the playing field that opens up with every re-vival or re-telling. After all, what yesterday's dance means and how it lives on is being determined anew every day, by different generations of artists and dance enthusiasts.

Expect iconic dance pieces, impressive new work, amateur dancers diving into their favourite repertoire, an exhibition of audience memories, the Body of Work podcast with the voices of the dancers, a book presentation, a talk about dancing at the crossroads of diverse dance cultures, and dance makers opening the doors of their studios and giving the audience a glimpse into their creative toolbox through workshops.

In collaboration with

30CC, CEMPER, Danspunt, fABULEUS, Counterpoint KU Leuven, Life Long Burning - Futures Lost and Found, DanceMap, Uitgeverij EPO and Cinema ZED

Acknowledgements

Body of Work is realized with the support of the Flemish Government, Stad Leuven, 30CC, Life Long Burning - Futures Lost and Found (co-funded by the European Union) and DanceMap (funded by the European Union).

Body of Work is also made possible thanks to the players of the National Lottery. Every year, the National Lottery returns 100% of its profit to society by supporting good causes in culture, sport, science, poverty reduction, sustainability and more. Thanks to their contribution, our dance heritage continues to thrive!

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