We are Johannes Mach (1999, DE) and JB, Jean-Baptiste Thevenod (2000, FR), two artists and friends who graduated in static trapeze from Fontys Circus and Performance Art in Tilburg in 2025. During and after our studies, we worked together in various contexts, as co-artists in a revival of The Man Who Fell From the Sky by Panama Pictures and as rigger and performer in JB’s graduation piece This is knot a trapeze, which was presented during Back to Base #17 and A Day at the Circus 2026. In 2026, we are developing Project A2 together, both as part of the Makershuis programme in Tilburg and in residence as Maker for a Week at TENT.
Research question:
How can we use a solo trapeze with two people at the same time, without falling back on traditional roles, whilst maintaining the dynamics between us – both interpersonal and physical?
We share a strong passion for trapeze and rigging, but take different approaches to our work. JB moves intuitively and playfully with knots and sequences, whilst Johannes focuses on technical precision. These contrasts form the basis of our collaboration. Whereas during our studies we mainly worked solo, afterwards we developed a desire to approach the trapeze together: not as an individual instrument, but as a shared space for interaction and dialogue.
Contrasts are the driving force behind our collaboration. We challenge and inspire one another, so that what first emerged individually shifts and renews itself within our collaboration. By developing in different directions, we strengthen one another: we explore our differences and deepen what we share. How can the two of us share a solo trapeze whilst maintaining both the physical and interpersonal dynamics?
MAKER FOR
A WEEK
