2turvenhoog 2027

2turvenhoog is an international, intergenerational performing arts festival dedicated to young children aged 0–6 and the adults around them. Each spring, the festival brings together children, families, artists and professionals in Almere, the Netherlands, for an adventurous programme of theatre, dance, music, performance and artistic encounters.

At 2turvenhoog, young children are not simply an audience: they are active participants in the artistic experience. The festival presents work by leading and emerging artists from the Netherlands and abroad who take young children seriously as curious, imaginative and perceptive spectators. Performances invite children and adults to experience art together – to look, listen, move, play, wonder and discover.

Intergenerational encounter is at the heart of the festival. We create spaces where babies, toddlers and young children can experience art alongside parents, grandparents, carers and other adults. Rather than separating generations, 2turvenhoog explores what can happen when they encounter a work of art together, each from their own perspective.

The festival takes place not only in theatres, but also in neighbourhoods and other places where young children and families naturally spend their time. This is closely connected to our year-round work in Almere. Through our programme Jong Beginnen (Start Young), artists build long-term relationships with children, parents and childcare professionals, bringing professional art into childcare centres and neighbourhoods and creating pathways towards the festival.

Alongside the public programme, 2turvenhoog is an international meeting place for artists and professionals working in performing arts for young audiences. Artistic research, exchange, residencies and conversations are an integral part of the festival. We encourage makers to experiment, question established forms and develop new artistic practices with and for the youngest audiences.

2turvenhoog believes that encountering art should begin at the very start of life. Art can create connection, stimulate curiosity and imagination, and offer children and adults a space in which they can experience the world differently. By bringing high-quality international performing arts close to young children and the adults around them, the festival aims to make art a natural and meaningful part of growing up.