DANCE Gala performed by students of the Zurich University of the Arts in collaboration with students of the UNATC “I.L. Caragiale”
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, ATELIER Hall, 7 – 8:45 PM
Warning! Access is exclusively by official invitation.
photo © Gert Weigelt, Zurich University of the Arts
The ICCD program is honored to reaffirm its collaboration with the Zurich University of the Arts, whose sustained presence reflects a shared dedication to advancing contemporary discourse in dance pedagogy and artistic practice. Their participation builds upon them precedent established in the previous edition, during which Prof. Jason Beechey, the Head of Dance Department, served as Guest Speaker for the Education Panel. Renowned internationally for his contributions to choreographic education, Beechey delivered an exemplary lecture that explored the creative dimension of dance pedagogy with remarkable precision, intellectual depth, and pedagogical insight. In the present edition, the Zurich University of the Arts extends its contribution through a performance created in partnership with students of UNATC. This collaborative work not only exemplifies the value of inter-institutional artistic research but also marks the celebration of the 115th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Romania. As the inaugural event in a series of cultural initiatives to be held throughout the year, the performance underscores the role of the arts as a meaningful vector of dialogue, mutual understanding, and cultural continuity. The ICCD program expresses its profound appreciation for the Zurich University of the Arts’s continued engagement. Their academic excellence, creative vitality, and commitment to international collaboration significantly enhance the intellectual and artistic stature of the program, while reinforcing the broader cultural connections between our institutions and communities.
Description
The performance is designed as a dance gala, featuring a curated series of choreographic pieces that spotlight rising artistic voices. Throughout the evening, creations by students from the University of Arts in Zurich and UNATC are presented in an alternating rhythm, giving shape to a vivid exchange between two distinct educational and cultural environments. This structure not only highlights the diversity of styles, methods, and themes explored within each institution, but also creates a dialogue between performers, choreographers, and audiences. Each piece brings its own vocabulary of movement, emotional tone, and conceptual approach, reflecting the unique perspectives of its young authors. The event structure allows these contrasting expressions to coexist and illuminate one another, inviting viewers to witness a constellation of talent in formation, evolving through experimentation and collaboration.
photo © Ida Zenna, Zurich University of the Arts
About the diplomatic event
115 Years of Swiss–Romanian Diplomatic Relations:
A Celebration of Friendship, Education, and Culture
(1911–2026)
In 2026, Switzerland and Romania proudly celebrate 115 years of diplomatic relations—over a
century of partnership, dialogue, and shared values. Since the establishment of official ties in 1911, the relationship between the two countries has grown into a dynamic collaboration rooted in trust, innovation, and mutual respect. Over these 115 years, Switzerland and Romania have strengthened bonds across multiple areas: economic exchange, scientific partnerships, education, and culture. Swiss expertise and investment have contributed to Romania’s development in research, sustainable infrastructure, and entrepreneurship, while Romania’s cultural richness and talent have enhanced Switzerland’s engagement in the region. This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on historical milestones and celebrate the ongoing cooperation that shapes the lives of citizens in both countries.
Education and Research Cooperation
Education has been a cornerstone of Swiss–Romanian relations. Collaborative programs, scholarships, and academic exchanges have connected universities and research institutions, fostering innovation in fields such as engineering, life sciences, environmental studies, and social sciences. Mobility initiatives allow Romanian students and researchers to gain experience in Switzerland’s world-renowned education system, while Swiss academics benefit from Romania’s intellectual and scientific contributions. These educational exchanges build long-lasting professional networks and strengthen the foundations for future collaboration.
Cultural Dialogue and Exchange
Culture plays a vital role in deepening understanding between Switzerland and Romania. Over the decades, artists, musicians, writers, and cultural institutions have contributed to a vibrant exchange of ideas and creativity. Joint exhibitions, concerts, film festivals, literary projects, and artistic residencies celebrate the unique cultural heritage of both nations while fostering dialogue and innovation. Swiss support for Romanian cultural initiatives, alongside Romania’s presence in Switzerland’s artistic scene, highlights the enduring impact of people-to-people connections. The 115-year milestone stands as a testament to friendship, shared values, and continuous collaboration. As Switzerland and Romania look to the future, the partnership remains committed to building an even more innovative, sustainable, and interconnected Europe — strengthened by the bonds of education, culture, and mutual respect.
Zurich University of Arts program
Zurich Dance Academy:
„After Glass“
Choreographer: Ihsan Rustem
Dancers: Rio Katumba, Timothé Miele
Costume-designer: Brian Scalini
Music: „Heart of Glass“, „Crabtree Remix“ by: Philip Glass, Blondie, Jonas Crabtree
BA Contemporary Dance:
„Recuerdos“
Choreographers: Javier Rodriguez Cobos in collaboration with the dancer
Dancer: Adam Winter
Music: „Recuerdos“ by Hermanos Gutiérrez.
„Selfless“
Choreographers: Javier Rodriguez Cobos in collaboration with the dancer
Dancer: Laure De Juli
Music: „Na“ ( de Casteldoza ) by Sylvain Rifflet
„Algo contigo“
Choreographer: Javier Rodriguez Cobos
Dancers: Laure De Juli, Adam Winter
Music: „Low Sun“ by Hermanos Gutiérrez
MA Dance:
„A teeny-tiny seed“
Choreographers: Stefanie Schaarschmidt, Alex Ferro
Dancers: Stefanie Schaarschmidt, Alex Ferro
Without music.
National University of Theatre and Film “I.L. Caragiale” program
BA Choreography:
„Blossom”
Choreographer: Daniel Alexandru Dragomir
Music: „Aria” by Alexandru Bălănescu
Dancers: Iulia Andro, Ilinca Budeanu, Daria Bușilă, Antonia Didușcă, Ioana Drăghici, Cătălina Ionescu, Alexandra Necula, Alexia Tobă
„Binar”
Choreographer: Alexandru Stanciu
Music: „Uniko Emo” by Kimmo Pohjonen
Dancers: Briana Francesca Orezeanu, Ilinca Budeanu, Alexandru Stanciu
„Containment”
Choreographer: Ada Roșu
Music: „Opening Monologues” and „Surgeon Monologue” by Mikael Karlsson; „Knee Play 2″ by Philip Glass; „Etterbeek” by Dictaphone
Dancers: Eduardo Comello, Irina Chiriacescu, Jacob Connor, Octavia Cristea, Alexandra Budescu
Costume-designer: Ada Roșu
„Exactly Them”
Choreographer: Alexandra Zavelea
Music: „Fixated” by Christophe Filippi
Dancers: Sofia Elena Constantin, Adela Stanciu
„Manubrium”
Choreographer: Iulia Andro
Music: „Run” by Hania Rani
Dancers: Ilinca Budeanu, Daria Bușilă, Daria Cristea, Cătălina Ionescu
Lighting – designers: Tony Macpella, Anca Stoica
Sound operators: Vlad Țențiu, Dan Popescu
Gala show finale music: „Oh, Girl” by Shukar Collective