De Dateleedshow

Last year, a new tradition was spontaneously launched at Arti! On April 11, “De Dateleedshow” took place. Willy van der Griendt, author of the book “Daten voor gevorderden” (Dating for Advanced Users), was interviewed, during which many aspects of the hectic dating landscape were discussed. After the break, attendees had the opportunity to practice “quality encounters.” A prolonged speed-dating session emerged and became increasingly lively, to the point that Arti’s chairman Jeroen Werner exclaimed: “This is so surprising—we should do this much more often!”

On May 22, we aim to grant that wish. In Dateleedshow 2.0, Hans Kuiper will be in conversation with Willy van der Griendt, this time elevating the interview to a more serious level. The phenomenon of dating deserves it. “Live life to the fullest—but preferably not alone. Or perhaps alone, but not lonely. How do you do that?”

Now that people in the West are living longer (women on average 83.3 years and men 80.7), we want to raise the question of whether this longer life makes us happier or instead causes deep concerns. How do older people form friendships, and do they still do so? Is there still a plan, or is growing old something you simply have to undergo? Are artists different in this respect, perhaps even privileged, because they can work until their last breath and often “die in harness”? Or is growing older, in this individualistic society, simply frightening for everyone?

In addition to an in-depth interview, there will be visual material, a quiz, and a Q&A session. After the break, participants can once again gather at the long tables, where they can freely date and flirt without inhibition.

Hans Kuiper is an artist member of Arti et Amicitiae, creates performative installations, and is the initiator of Kunstruimte 411. He writes, among others, for Articula and is a former board member. See www.hanskuiper.com for more information about his projects.

Willy van der Griendt (1950) is an actress, singer, and author. She has performed in numerous theatre productions, television series, and films, and writes for the newspaper Trouw. In 2024, her book Dating for Advanced Users was published, a personal account of an older person in search of a final love. More information can be found at www.willyvandergriendt.nl

Image: MacSiers-Imaging