The Genesis by Copenhagen Collective sees seventeen international performers unite to celebrate the joys of human connection. Performer David Ullrich will be a panellist at our Beyond Borders event on Tuesday 5 July.
The show the Genesis is an expression and display of humanity. 17 artist from over 14 countries around the world have come together to demonstrate amazing feats of acrobatics, and experience how to trust, communicate and create together. Spanning many different cultures, languages, and values, this show is a true demonstration of the magic that can happen when we come together. The Genesis takes us on an emotional journey, demonstrated through physical feats that continuously push us to our boundaries and to connect.
The show’s creation embodied its message. For three months, artists from wildly different cultures lived and trained together in an abandoned airplane hangar just outside of Copenhagen, navigating language barriers, injuries, and kitchen duties. Yet, it was precisely these challenges that forged their resilience. Late-night conversations over shared meals became as essential as acrobatic drills. Trust was built, not just in catches and throws, but in the daily choice to show up for one another.
Many of the skills and the research that has gone into it the creation have emerged through extensive collaborative efforts that bring the ensemble together as one. As acrobatic performers, like everyone else, we often have to push through different challenges that are of our control regularly. Resiliency, unity and connection bring The Genesis to life, encouraging each of us face life head on, to love and to hope, and in turn inspire audiences just the same.
About Copenhagen Collective
Seventeen extraordinary acrobats, hailing from diverse nations and cultures, converge to redefine contemporary circus. Forged in disparate traditions and mastering a spectrum of techniques, their signature style ignites their shows, blending methods from South America, Europe, Canada, and Australia. Witness the fusion of global artistry as the Copenhagen Collective takes the stage. Prepare for a truly unique acrobatic experience.
Image credits: Luke Chadwick Jones, Siggi Walter
The Genesis
1 2.30pm | From 31 July – 25 August 2025 | Assembly Hall, Main Hall
Contemporary circus & outdoor arts: Beyond Borders
2-4pm | Tuesday 5 July | Fringe Central, 86 Candlemaker Row
Join Articulation to explore some of the challenges and successes of international collaboration. This event will include a panel discussion with Vee Smith (Circus Performer and Producer), Pamela Walker (Senior Producer, Imaginate) and David Ullrich (Copenhagen Collective), followed by a structured networking session.