BLINK BLINK
Together you are stronger, and everything is better with two. That’s why BLINK BLINK paired young people from youth care with adult artists. In duos, they created new artistic work based on the unique story and personality of each young person. Side by side with their adult companion, the young people stepped out of their comfort zone and found themselves in a positive spotlight.
The culmination of this journey of collaboration, growth, and encounter was a series of showcase performances at the Warande and other venues in the Kempen region. Out of the care setting and into the spotlight. The artistic duos shone together on stage, positively and with their personal stories. The audience was introduced to new, underexposed, and surprising narratives.
How does it work exactly? BLINK BLINK collaborates with around five young people from the wider Kempen region. Each of them has a connection to youth care. Starting from the interests of the young people, a suitable match is found with an adult artist.
Dance or text-based theatre, rap music or spoken word: anything is possible. BLINK BLINK breaks down the boundaries between different artistic disciplines. During the creative process, both members of each duo are equals. The adult does not coach the young person; instead, they walk their artistic path side by side.
Each duo works intensively together under the guidance of an experienced artistic team: a theatre director, scenographer, and dramaturg. These professionals help the duos translate their story to the stage, giving them every opportunity to shape their personal history into an artistic form.
concept and artistic direction Leen Braspenning
produced by Brasart
BLINK BLINK is subsidized by the Flemish Community and the city of Turnhout. The project is based at De Warande and is carried out in collaboration with youth care organizations Cirkant, Ter Loke, and De Waaiburg.
2026