de Stilte
Breda
de Stilte is a dance company based in Breda, the Netherlands, dedicated to creating performances for and with children. Performing in schools and theatres (small and large, locally and internationally) de Stilte makes dance accessible to toddlers, children, adolescents and families alike. Its work is rooted in the belief that dance is a universal language: one that connects people beyond words and creates space where every child can feel seen, recognised and valued. Through layered performances and educational programmes, de Stilte nurtures children’s imagination, curiosity and confidence, inviting them to experience the world with open senses and an open heart. The company develops productions that honour children’s perspectives, offering time and space for fantasy, reflection, and shared presence in an increasingly distracted world. By collaborating with schools, cultural institutions, and social organisations, de Stilte continues its mission to bring dance closer to all children. Simply because dance makes us human.
PEOPLE
Gertien Bergstra
Artist
Gertien Bergstra has been part of de Stilte since the company’s inception. She began as a dancer and later developed into rehearsal director, artistic coordinator, and choreographer, contributing significantly to the company’s artistic growth. As a choreographer, she is known for her strong musical sensitivity and her affinity for organic movement material. Her work is characterised by clear physical logic, refined musicality and close attention to the natural flow of movement. Partnering and a precise, recognisable movement language are central elements in her choreographic practice. Together with Femke Somerwil, she forms a long-standing artistic duo with a strong commitment to creating dance for children. Their work combines imagination, craftsmanship and physical expressiveness, with a distinctive focus on quality and accessibility for young audiences.
Chiara Aldorisio
Artist
Chiara Aldorisio began classical ballet at the age of four at a private dance school and developed an early interest in a wide range of dance styles, including jazz, flamenco, Caribbean dance, modern and contemporary dance. Her fascination with different cultures is a key source of inspiration in her artistic development and strongly influences her movement quality and dynamic range. During her Dancer/Maker bachelor studies at ArtEZ University of the Arts in Arnhem, she worked with renowned teachers and choreographers including Caroline Carlson, Jan Martens, Marta Nejm and Philip Taylor. She further developed her practice in ballet, contemporary dance, floorwork, improvisation, and composition. Earlier, she studied in the International Dance Program in Rome, including an exchange with Ballettakademien Göteborg. Chiara is recognised as a dedicated and focused dancer with an open, curious and internationally oriented artistic perspective.
Femke Somerwil
Artist
Femke Somerwil has been part of de Stilte since the company’s founding. She developed within the company from dancer to rehearsal director, artistic coordinator, and choreographer, playing an important role in shaping its artistic direction. As a choreographer, she has a distinctive sensitivity for the sculptural qualities of movement and the way the body occupies space and conveys meaning. She is also recognized for her impeccable sense of timing, using rhythm and suspension as key carriers of expression in dance. Her work is marked by a strong preference for partnering and a precise, tightly stylized movement language. Together with Gertien Bergstra, she forms a long-standing artistic duo dedicated to creating dance for children. Their performances bring together physical precision, imagination and a strong sensitivity to young audiences.
Elvedin Siljdedic
Artist
Elvedin Siljdedic studied Contemporary Dance at Codarts University of the Arts in Rotterdam (2017–2020), where he developed a strong physical and artistic foundation. Prior to this, he earned a bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from the University of Bihać in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a background that informs his broad cultural perspective and artistic sensitivity. During his studies, he participated in the Young Talent Program of Scapino Ballet Rotterdam (2019–2020), under the direction of Ed Wubbe. Since then, he has worked as a dancer with several choreographers and makers, including Robin Nimanong, Justin de Jager, Fernando Dominguez and Eldridge Labinjo. In his work, Elvedin combines a strong physical presence with an open and investigative approach to movement. His versatility, musicality and curiosity allow him to move fluidly between different choreographic languages and artistic contexts.
Irma Bouwman
Organisation
Irma Bouwman is involved in The Right Time on behalf of de Stilte, where she is responsible for administrative support and organizational coordination. In this role, she oversees planning, financial administration and practical coordination, ensuring the project’s smooth and efficient execution. Bouwman has been affiliated with de Stilte in Breda since 2010. After graduating from Breda University of Applied Sciences in International Leisure Management, she held several positions within the company, including assistant to the managing director, production manager and office manager. Through these roles, she gained extensive experience in production, planning, organisation and national and international tour coordination. She has contributed to projects such as the international BRIK Festival and various site-specific productions by de Stilte. She is currently responsible for the company’s financial operations and, since 2025, also serves as a board member of Stichting Brabant Menu.
