Jacob Bousset - Seasonal Hierarchies

In “Seasonal Hierarchies,” dancer-choreographer Jacob Bousset, together with dancer Rozálie Stárová, explores the multifaceted figure of the fool. What meaning can this archetypal role hold in a world dominated by rigid structures and hierarchies? What surprising—and sometimes unsettling—guises and functions has this figure assumed across time and space?

From Nuer prophets to early medieval festivals of fools, the fool has served in numerous cultures as a mirror to society—an outsider challenging norms through humor and absurdity. Their presence in today’s “prankster economy” demonstrates how this figure continues to resonate in an era of disruption and unpredictability.

Jacob drew inspiration from *The Dawn of Everything*, in which researchers David Graeber and David Wengrow linked the fool to the earliest forms of hierarchy. According to the authors, political hierarchies were constructed and dismantled on a seasonal basis, allowing eccentric figures to serve as temporary leaders within them.

The sociopolitical implications are far-reaching. Seasonal hierarchies shed light on the dangers of power, while “fool-leaders” reveal insights into entrenched patterns of normalization. “Seasonal Hierarchies” translates these ideas into a dance performance that revolves around the complexity of the fool.

TEAM / CREDITS 

Choreographjy Jacob Bousset Performance and movement development Rozálie Stárová and Jacob Bousset Initial concept Jits Van Damme and Jacob Bousset Music design Salim Mabrouk Costume design Madelein Huyghebaert Scenography Madelein Huyghebaert Light design Jona Schepens Artistic mentor Christine De Smedt Mentor audience participation Rona Kennedy Light and sound technician Jona Schepens With the support of Platform in de Maak, CODE DANS+, Danspunt Residencies STUK, c o r s o, Ultima Vez, RADAR, hetpaleis, P.A.R.T.S., De Figuranten

Jacob Bousset (2002, Belgium) is a dancer and choreographer based in Leuven. He recently graduated from P.A.R.T.S. and is about to complete a bachelor’s degree in biology at KU Leuven. His work combines an interest in rhythm, composition, and physical expression with political and ecological engagement.

With the support of Danspunt and Platform In De Maak, he is currently working on *Seasonal Hierarchies*, a dance performance that explores the complexity of the fool.