Discovering the Nordic Dance Scene at STHLM Dans

Text by Juulius Vaiksoo

I visited STHLM Dans in Stockholm, Sweden, at the beginning of May 2026. I have always been very interested in the Nordic dance scene, as I am from Estonia and studied in Iceland. But somehow, because of that, I rarely make time to explore dance scenes in other Nordic countries. It feels like I need to explore more of Southern and Central Europe (which is also true!). Now, the time in Stockholm really reminded me to also dive into the world of those who are close to me. It is so easy to travel between our neighbouring countries and support each other.

The Visiting Artist Programme (VAP) and STHLM Dans had made a very nice schedule for the artists to see enough dance and also learn about the dance scene across Sweden (not only in Stockholm). We met with people from many institutions that I wouldn't otherwise have come across. Now, I feel I have a way better overview of the dance scene in Sweden. And even though it was intense, we did take time to fika, have lunch together, sit down, and enjoy the spring in Stockholm. And yes, get to know your neighbours! But through VAP I also had a chance to meet dancers from Albania, Spain, Belgium, Greece, Norway and Ukraine. Within such a short time, I made so many new connections that were not just inspiring but, first of all, friendly and kind, which led to inspiration.

I want to thank VAP for being there for the artists! It is such a great opportunity to take time to fully focus on watching dance and meeting new people. It is such a big part of our job - seeing other people, meeting them, being inspired, learning from each other. And so often we do it from our own personal time and money. But with VAP, it is actually our job for a few days. As artists do a lot of „hidden work“, it is great when somebody recognises your time and values that work as well.

During the festival, there was also the Baltic Take Over festival happening, which was once again a great reminder that I should also pay attention to getting to know the Latvian and Lithuanian dance scenes. So the long weekend in Stockholm brought me so much closer to my neighbours.

Thank you, Visiting Artist Programme, STHLM Dans, and Sõltumatu Tantsu Lava (STL)!