Codarts Circus Arts is extremely proud of the alumni selected for the European finals of *circusnext*, the European platform for circus professionals. Two successful former Codarts Circus Arts students have a chance to win the coveted title this year: Jakob Jacobsson with his production Insomnia and Jef Kinds with his partner, Mia Drobec and the performance Arbo.

Jakob Jacobsson is a Swedish-born, Netherlands-based, aerial rope artist. He graduated from Codarts in 2018 and now works both collectively and solo as a circus performer, rigger and artist.

Jef Kinds (Belgium) graduated from Codarts in 2022, where he specialized in aerial straps and acro-dance. Together with two fellow students he founded the company !UKBUM!

Both have the opportunity to further develop their work with a budget, co-productions, residencies and training within the European network. In May 2025, they will present their work in Paris.

circusnext is a European circus label that selects creators based on their individuality and creativity. In addition, circusnext is a European platform consisting of about 30 partners from 17 countries, with the aim of discovering, supporting and providing play opportunities for talented circus artists.

A jury composed of representatives from European partner venues and artists selected 12 projects by 17 contemporary circus authors, showing a diverse range of formats.