Conversations
Conversations is an immersive XR performance by Paul Boereboom and Leon Rogissart, in which live performance, music, and extended reality come together in a sensory and participatory experience. The performance explores new forms of presence, connection, and interaction between the physical and digital worlds.
Conversations is a layered encounter between physical and digital realities. Through “extended reality,” tangible and virtual worlds blend seamlessly. Light and sound expand the boundaries of space, distort perspectives, and create an environment in which viewers do not merely watch but actively participate.
A performer appears as a guide and a mirror. The virtual space opens up, bringing the audience into contact with themselves and with one another. In this hybrid setting, Conversations explores how personal experiences relate to the collective experience and how encounters can lead to a deeper understanding of identity and presence.
The performance unfolds to the sounds of Belle qui tiens ma vie by composer Antoine Arbeau. This Renaissance music takes on a contemporary dimension within an immersive environment where layers of time, realities, and perspectives converge. The result is a poetic quest for curiosity, connection, and the search for oneself in a world that increasingly consists of multiple, overlapping layers.
In conjunction with the performance, SPRING is hosting a special end-of-year evening. Alongside Conversations, we will unveil Cobie’s Light — a work by artist alaa minawi — reflect on the highlights of SPRING 2026, and offer a sneak peek into what’s in store for SPRING 2027. Following the second performance, we will engage in a discussion with creators Paul Boereboom and Leon Rogissart, joined by alaa minawi, and conclude the evening with drinks.
Cobie’s Light, looking back at SPRING 2026 and looking ahead to 2027
Between the two showings of Conversations, we will unveil Cobie’s Light by alaa minawi. The piece is dedicated to Cobie Vos, who served as director of the cultural center Het Huis Utrecht for over a decade. Following her departure, alaa minawi created this artwork as a gesture of appreciation for her years of dedication and commitment. The work consists of two parts: one is located in Cobie’s own home, while the second part will be unveiled at Theater Kikker during SPRING Days: Conversations. We will also present a video compilation reflecting on the highlights of SPRING 2026 and offer a glimpse into our plans for SPRING 2027.
Program
19:00 – First performance of Conversations
Unveiling of Cobie’s Light, a look back at SPRING 2026, a preview of SPRING 2027, and a celebratory toast
21:00 – Second performance of Conversations
22:00 – Post-performance discussion with Paul Boereboom, Leon Rogissart, and alaa minawi
22:30 – Drinks
Tickets and date
The performance will take place on December 10 at 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Tickets are available through Theater Kikker.
“Visitors wearing XR headsets open the gates to a new dimension together”
Credits
concept en XR-ontwerp Paul Boereboom
concept en composition Leon Rogissart
performer Sophie Prins
technician Dries Himpe
producers Muziektheater Transparant, Podium Bloos
techn ical productionUpscaleXR
special thanks to De gemeente Rotterdam, De gemeente Utrecht, Amsterdams fonds voor de kunst & Cultuurloket Digitall, De Grote Post en Vlaams Audiovisueel Fond
photography Nika Prokopenka