Physical performer and theatre maker Çiğdem Polat, What You See and Theater Kikker join forces for a sequel to What You See In-Depth: Safety of LGBTQIA+ creators of color. In the theatre world, there is more and more room for polyphony, on stage and off. This creates a wealth of stories, but is not always without risk. In environments where Western ideas prevail, there can be a lack of sensitivity for the safety of makers who do not fit into a 'one size fits all' approach. How do we deal with taboo-breaking stories that involve safety risks? How can we create space within organisations for a tailor-made approach? How can we create a safe environment for these makers so that inclusion and polyphony are truly made possible? And what does this mean for our own work practice?
On June 11, we will discuss this with each other. This program is a follow-up to the program that Çiğdem Polat in November 2024 during What You See. The guests are invited to look at the theme of safety with an intersectional perspective. Performances, speakers and conversations alternate. For example, choreographer Jordan Achiano a performance, brings XILLAN songs to be heard, expert in anti-discrimination, D&I, sexual and gender diversity speaks Dounia Jari us and gives Crocus themselves a speech. They then enter into a conversation with each other, and with us. Actress and moderator Jennifer Muntslag is the host of the afternoon. Together we will search for the knowledge, sensitivity, frameworks and possibilities to make our stage and production areas safer. And thus create a shared responsibility for ensuring safe working environments.
The program on June 11th is a stand-alone event, and it is not necessary to have attended the first program to participate in this afternoon. We would like to invite everyone who works in the cultural sector; directors, programmers, artists, production and marketing staff, cultural journalists and more. We hope to see you on June 11th!
Read here A Call To Action For The Safety Of LGBTQIA+ Creators Of Color, an article by Mirte Hartland about the first meeting on November 14.
Jennifer Muntslag | Actress/Moderator
Jennifer Muntslag, also known as JNM the Naked MC, is a versatile presenter, actress and performer who has built a strong reputation within the cultural and creative sector. Professionally, she is known for her dynamic and energetic stage presence, bringing events to life with her unique style of presenting and audience interaction.
Çiğdem Polat | Physical performer & Theatre maker
Çiğdem Polat is a physical performer and theatre maker. Her work touches on taboo-breaking themes related to mental health, cultural conflicts and sexual identity. She worked in productions by Jan Fabre, Jakop Ahlbom, Casper Vandeputte, Alida Dors and created the solo performance Gobek Askı which premiered at Amsterdam Fringe Festival 2024.
Jordan Achiano | Movement artist/Maker
I'm a physical performer and creator in constant transformation. I craft sensory performances using movement, sound, and light, inviting audiences into a collective experience. My body becomes a channel, connecting to transformative rhythmic energies. Through performance, I aim to create shared moments of sensory awareness and energetic connection, pushing the boundaries of physical expression.
XILLAN | Storyteller
XILLAN (Xillan Macrooy) is a Surinamese-Dutch storyteller in music, literature and theatre. As a product of multiple worlds, the continuous transformation of identity plays an important role in his work. In 2025 and 2026, as a creator, he explores new ways to celebrate his multiplicity, with the aim of building new artistic worlds that offer space for both (Surinamese queer) legacy and innovation.
Dounia Jari | co-founder of the Maruf Foundation and project leader of RADAR
Dounia Jari is a speaker, trainer and moderator. Her expertise lies in various social themes, such as anti-discrimination, D&I, sexual and gender diversity and (in combination with) religion. Dounia finds it important to create awareness and to advocate for a society in which we recognize the power of diversity, recognize intersectionality and value inclusion.
