Jana Jacuka

Jana Jacuka (1995, LV/NL) is a choreographer and performer. She operates at the intersection of dance, performance and theatre, developing work in which the body, voice and text function as equal materials.

In her practice, Jana often starts from the minimal: using the body as a starting point, she creates performances that emerge from seemingly simple actions and everyday experiences. This approach opens up a physical and sensory layer in which meaning is not so much explained as experienced.

A key area of exploration in her work is the voice as a choreographic instrument. Through extreme vocal techniques — such as grunts, fry screams and speaking on the inhale — she explores how sound relates to the body and how it can function as an extension of it.

Jacuka studied at the Latvian Academy of Culture and completed her Master’s degree at DAS Theatre in Amsterdam in 2025. Her work has been presented internationally at festivals and venues across Europe and has received several awards, including the ‘Performance of the Year’ prize at the Latvian Dance Awards.