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The Guardian on Jiří Kylián's Wings of Time

12 June 2025

This week, The Guardian published an extensive and glowing article about Wings of Time, the remarkable retrospective dedicated to the work of choreographer Jiří Kylián. The festival is currently taking place in Oslo, but will also come to The Hague from June 18 to 22.

In the article, Kylián – now 78 – is portrayed with warmth and deep admiration. His groundbreaking choreographies, his love of visual art, and his unique sense of humor are all highlighted. He also reflects on his impressive career, during which he led Nederlands Dans Theater for many years and had a profound influence on contemporary dance worldwide. The Guardian calls the festival “a rare celebration of an exceptional body of work” and features Kylián speaking at length about his sources of inspiration, his creative process, and his transition to visual art. The article emphasizes both the emotional and artistic depth of his work, as well as the humor and lightness that often shine through in his choreography.

Wings of Time is much more than a dance festival. In Oslo, visitors are treated to a mix of performances, art installations, films, and even rooftop dance on the opera house. The Hague will also celebrate the master choreographer’s oeuvre with performances, masterclasses, a photo exhibition, and an exclusive interview.

Kylián has lived in The Hague for many years and describes the festival in The Guardian as “one of the most beautiful things that could have happened to me at this stage in life.” The article is a must-read for anyone who loves dance, art, or simply a great story – and it certainly whets the appetite for what’s to come in the Netherlands.

Read the full interview
‘I must have done something right!’: dance master Jiří Kylián on his festival, fierce critics and the Ministry of Silly Walks