‘LIVING’ is a social artistic project that brings hybride circus further then public space. Both the creative process and the performances take place in locations where you least expect it, such as living rooms, care institutions, cafes, libraries, prisons, etc. The diverse architecture and intimacy of these places are an integral part of the event.

Be Flat is interested in the exchange that takes place between locals, artist, organization and audience. The company wants to stimulate curiosity about the unknown and ensure that everyone can experience contemporary circus from the front row, including the most vulnerable among us.

The project will proceed in 3 fases:

LIVING Labo (6 weeks of research: January 2023 – June 2023)

The company will start with an extensive research period in which they develop a common performative language as a group. The locations and the spectators are variable factors that have a large share within LIVING. Through ‘field improvisations’ and by using ‘open labs’ they will explore how they can play with these components. The aim of these residency weeks is to define the potential reach and the desired impact.

LIVING Circus (6 weeks of creation: October 2023 – February 2024)

The company then works towards 5 different performances, in duo and trio. They make pieces of 25 minutes that are connected to the places where they are brought.

The group members take on specific roles to monitor, support and partly guide each other’s creative process. Adaptive representations can only be made on the basis of real game situations. They play try-out performances at Theater op de Markt, CirkLabo festival, cc De Spil, (Miramiro festival or Smells like circus: to be confirmed) and will ‘premiere’ at the living room festival Chambre d’O of cc De Grote Post.

LIVING Beyond (starting in March 2024)

In LIVING Beyond, the company bridges the gap between private and public spaces. They realize ‘One-shot performances’ where they reach a mixed audience and where the impact is greater. The conceptualization and realization of these ‘happenings’ is always done in close collaboration with the organization and its local cultural partners. Each Beyond performance is tailor-made and has its own logic, aesthetics and message. The neighborhood is actively involved and is given a role in the event. We work with intensive creation periods of a maximum of 10 days, followed by a limited series of performances.

Be Flat plans LIVING Beyond performances in collaboration with MAD Festival, Circusstad, Theater op de Markt, CirkL, Hopla! and De Groote Stooringe.