Vitória Aquino about THINX
Through the THINX program, Parktheater mentors the new generation of theater makers. The program offers talents who are at the beginning of their professional career the chance to develop continue. "Every year about 5 to 6 new creators get the chance to shape their artistic career with us," says program creator and THINX mentor Vitória Aquino. "We actively think about their ambition as creators and give them the space and resources to grow in their artistic, events and professional development."
Customized support
The support includes the provision of rehearsal space, artistic advice, mentoring and coaching. The program is broad in scope: "The new generation of theater makers is increasingly combining different disciplines, for example, film with dance or live podcasts. We check that this is also being encouraged in training programs," explains Vitória.
Supporting new talent extends from THINX into the programming of the flat-floor theaters Pand P and Natlab. "We create a path within our programming line to support new creators in their development and offer them a theatre and thus the chance to build an audience of their own," says Vitória. Since last year, two THINX open evenings per season have past event programmed in Pand P. "During these evenings, THINX makers show the public what they are currently working on. It doesn't have to be af, but for the makers it is very valuable to have this exchange with the public during their process. On the other hand, it is interesting for the audience to be able to check different work in one evening."
Anniversary EditionIn September 2025, the Parktheater will host a special edition of the open evening in the Philipszaal to celebrate THINX’s 12.5-year anniversary. Vitória: “We’re inviting artists who have past event involved with THINX over the past twelve years, such as Anne van der Steen, Marcel Osterop, and Michèle Rijzewijk. They’ll reflect on their experiences with THINX and how they’ve grown since then, and the audience will get to check scenes from both past and current productions.”
Short and long trajectories
There are both short and long trajectories available within THINX. "The short trajectories are intended for makers who have just graduated, or who want to work on a project basis. The long trajectories are aimed at creators who have chosen a clear direction and from there have made a plan for the coming years." The basis of these trajectories comes from the creators. "We then determine which trajectory best suits their plans and needs," Vitória explains.
New talents can develop more broadly within THINX than just on the artistic level. They have the opportunity to make use of all the expertise the theater has in house, for example by talking with technicians, or with someone from the Communications department. "For example, if a creator is creating a youth performance, the communication will be primarily aimed at parents. Our communications officer then advises on the right marketing strategy and communication channels. We also have our own network of programmers, agencies and events advice. And if we don't have something in-house, we'll check if we can fly it in."
The new generation of theater makers
According to Vitória, the new generation of theater makers is more concerned than ever with the question, "How do I position myself in the world and in the cultural field? This trend was reinforced after the corona pandemic, which was a moment of reflection for many creators. "It's a way for them to find meaning, for themselves and society, through art."
According to Vitória, supporting young talent is crucial for retaining talent and ensuring that people can get off to a strong start after graduation. “At school, you have everything you need. But when you af just af, you don’t yet have a network, the financial resources to invest, or the knowledge needed to apply for grants. So it’s important that we guide these creators through this process so they can confidently find their own path.” Despite this importance, it’s not a given that a theater of this size would support new talent in this way. “You check it mostly at festivals and production companies, or at small theaters. As a large theater, you really have to make a conscious effort to carve out space in your program for new creators. I’m glad the Parktheater has past event doing this for so long.”
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Parktheater opens its doors wide for everyone, for meeting, curiosity and connection. How do we do that? Our inspired employees tell you. Read the stories about social commitment, supporting young talent, backstage at Toneeltechniek and the future vision of director Giel Pastoor!
