An evening of exceptional dance, inspiring talent and encounters. The Dutch Ballet Gala by Dansersfonds ’79 brings together the leading dance companies in the Netherlands for a special benefit performance. From the classical refinement of Dutch National Ballet to the contemporary power of Nederlands Dans Theater, Introdans, Scapino Ballet Rotterdam and Conny Janssen Danst, the gala offers a unique opportunity to experience the extraordinary diversity of Dutch dance in a single evening.
The gala has a remarkable history. On 13 September 1979, celebrated ballet stars Alexandra Radius and Han Ebbelaar founded Dansersfonds ’79. On the occasion of their twentieth anniversary as dancers, they decided to use the money they received as gifts to establish a fund supporting both emerging and established dance talent. More than forty years later, the fund continues this mission by providing grants, special awards, encouragement prizes and awards for outstanding achievement.
This year’s gala is dedicated to choreographer David Dawson. Having emerged from the choreographic talent programme of Dutch National Ballet, where he remains an Associate Artist, Dawson has gone on to become one of the most sought-after ballet choreographers of his generation. His acclaimed duet On the Nature of Daylight and the Dutch premiere of FAUN(E) reveal his distinctive contemporary choreographic language and his ability to reinvent classical traditions for today.
The programme also brings together works by some of the most influential choreographers in contemporary dance. Hans van Manen, Marco Goecke and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui are represented with works including Van Manen’s exquisite Simple Things, performed by Dutch National Ballet, Goecke’s powerful and deeply moving The Big Crying, performed by Nederlands Dans Theater 2, and Cherkaoui’s beautiful In Memoriam, performed by Introdans. Scapino Ballet Rotterdam will also present a preview of La Mer, Nanine Linning’s new production.
A special highlight is the appearance of Ukrainian dance duo Vlad & Veronika. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, they found a new home in the Netherlands. Their production Revelation made a lasting impression on Alexandra Radius and Han Ebbelaar, while their breathtaking performances and victory on Holland’s Got Talent in 2025 brought them to the attention of a wide audience. At the gala, they will perform the moving duet Everglow, taken from Revelation.
Every edition of the Dutch Ballet Gala supports the mission of Dansersfonds ’79: creating opportunities for dancers to develop their talent, pursue their ambitions and contribute to the future of dance.
An evening where Dutch dance comes together. Where tradition meets innovation, and emerging talent shares the stage with established names. Above all, a celebration of the power, diversity and enduring beauty of dance.
“Featuring Dutch National Ballet, Junior Company of Dutch National Ballet, Nederlands Dans Theater, Introdans, Scapino Ballet Rotterdam, Conny Janssen Danst, Vlad & Veronika and the Dance Academy of the Royal Conservatoire”
