Grand Gala・July 26

Ahmad Joudeh is a dancer, choreographer, and author, born and raised in Yarmouk, a Palestinian refugee camp in Damascus, Syria, where he grew up stateless. After graduating from the Higher Institute for Theatrical Arts in Damascus in 2016, he moved to Amsterdam with the support of the Dutch National Ballet. Since 2017, he has been internationally active as an artist and human rights activist, using dance as a powerful voice for freedom and dignity. He obtained Dutch nationality in 2021 and completed his studies in Ballet Teaching (Vaganova Method) at the Amsterdam University of the Arts – National Ballet Academy in 2023. He is a high-profile supporter of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), an International Friend of SOS Children’s Villages International.
Ahmad is a ballet dancer with Golden State Ballet in San Diego, California, and also a Young Global Leader with the World Economic Forum since 2024.

Performance
“Layl” the late-night prayer – is a dance that blends classical and Sufi dervish movements, choreographed by Ahmad Joudeh. This performance serves as a cultural bridge between East and West, uniting traditions through the universal language of dance. The music, composed by Dutch-Iranian composer Farid Sheek, enhances the spiritual essence of the piece. Completing the visual poetry, the skirt symbolising the starry night sky designed by Kilden Theatre in Norway.