VOID

In Void, Vandekeybus presents a world where outcast characters – those who live in their own “bubble” or “void” and deviate from societal norms – take center stage. Through minimalist set design, contemporary choreography, and the interplay between sound and silence, Void invites the audience to engage with deeper, thought-provoking questions about individuality and difference. 

Void highlights how the stage is a space where the usual labels of normal or abnormal dissolve, even overturning societal norms. Vandekeybus reinforces the stage not as a place for realistic portrayals of life, but as a space to explore extreme, and often challenging, individual experiences: “It’s about people who don’t follow the expected path; who deviate in fascinating ways.” Despite their differences, the characters coexist harmoniously, offering an optimistic perspective on individuality, where even in moments of conflict, respect and collaboration prevail over aggression. 

"Each character in Void sees the world from their unique perspective, and through this, we explore broader societal themes. It's about delving into the intricate inner worlds of these characters, empathizing with their solitude, and understanding their struggles. Society often conditions us to follow a thin line of normality, labeling anything outside of it as abnormal. However, the unconsciousness, the unpredictable aspects of our work, are vital. This creation celebrates those outcast characters and the rare admission of others into their inner worlds." – Wim Vandekeybus 

Void is not a reflection of reality, but an invitation for the audience to engage with their own imagination. “People must explore what these characters could be,” Vandekeybus says. He believes that everyone has an element of the “abnormal” within themselves and that these characters embody this universal aspect. “Each older character has been a teenager, and every obsessive person has experienced rebellion. It’s fascinating to uncover these narratives.” 

The collaboration with young Belgian composer Arthur Brouns adds depth to the piece, with the music setting a unique tone that emphasizes both connection and loneliness. “I provide an initial playlist and general ideas, and Arthur transforms them into something extraordinary,” Vandekeybus explains. In addition to his original compositions, the score will incorporate tracks by Lander Gyselinck and elements of New York Jazz, blending genres into a cohesive soundscape. 

Lastly, the title Void encapsulates the concept of possibility. Vandekeybus describes it as a space filled with potential rather than emptiness. “When there is emptiness, there are countless possibilities. We often think of empty space as devoid of meaning, but that’s not true. For me, the void is a lack of normality, and within that emptiness lies enormous potential.” This idea is central to the performance, where the space itself is manipulated, raised, and hidden, like a child chasing abstract ideas, leaving the audience to imagine the possibilities within that void.