Doctoral defense of Carl von Winckelmann

In 2024, it is undeniable that our earth, climate and environment are escaping human control. The world is not a docile backdrop for humanity. Mise en Relation, playing and making theatre in a more-than-human world reflects on how a theatre practice can be a training ground for a life in which humans are not the centre of existence, but where interconnectedness with our environment is central. 

In this doctoral research in the arts, Carl von Winckelmann (Theatre) explores ways of making theatre as a director, player and writer from a humble, reactive stance. 

Here, theatre is seen as a ‘becoming,’ a process in which performance emerges again and again from the relationships between people and their environment. The concept of Mise en Relation is proposed as a means of dealing with all the human and other-than-human elements that co-produce a performance in the here and now while playing and making in an equal way.

Members of the examination committee: 

• Prof. Dr. Hans Maes (vice-dean research LUCA School of Arts – KU Leuven, chairman)
• Prof. Dr. Bart Philipsen (supervisor– KU Leuven)
• Peter Anthonissen (co-supervisor, LUCA School of Arts)
• Prof. dr. Peter De Graeve (member of the supervisory committee, LUCA School of Arts – KU Leuven)
• Prof. dr. Jonas Vanderschueren (KU Leuven)
• Prof. dr. Thomas De Baets (LUCA School of Arts - KU Leuven)
• Dr. Geert Kestens (LUCA School of Arts)
• Ciska Hoet (theatre and culture journalist, director of RoSa vzw)

The doctoral defence will take place on Friday, 28 February 2025 at 2pm in the Kamermuziekzaal at LUCA campus Lemmens (Lemmensberg 3, Leuven). A reception will be offered as of 17h00. You can register for the defence by purchasing a free ticket here until Thursday 27 February.