Improvisation as a bridge for inclusion and change
Performing Bridges
Portugal – Latvia – Netherlands
Erasmus+ Project 2025-1-PT01-RF210-ADU-000360058
ABOUT THE PROJECT
What Is Improvisation?
Improvisation is often associated with theatre, music, or performance.
But at its core, it is a human capacity - the ability to respond, adapt, listen, and act in the present moment.
In education and community work, improvisation becomes:
a tool for building trust and psychological safety
a way to navigate uncertainty and complexity
a method for active participation and shared responsibility
a practice of listening - to oneself and to others
a structure for creativity within real-life constraints
Improvisation does not mean chaos.
It means awareness, responsiveness, and collaboration.
In a world that constantly changes, improvisation helps educators and communities develop resilience, empathy, and flexibility - skills that go far beyond the arts.
Project components
Workshops
International sessions for educators, youth workers, and artists.
In-person trainings held in three countries will offer tools for creative pedagogy, emotional connection, and inclusive group facilitation.
Selected participants will also join the festival and a special pedagogical track. April–May 2026
Festival in Portugal
An intimate gathering of creativity, learning, and exchange.
Held in May 2026, the festival brings together participants for:
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Artistic labs and improvisation-based workshops
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Public performances and open jam sessions
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A dedicated pedagogical session for selected educators
Methodological Toolkit
A shared resource of exercises, cases, and insights.
The Toolkit compiles tested practices developed during the trainings and festival.
It includes methods, documentation, and adaptable tools for various age groups and learning contexts.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Improvisation is more than a method - it's a way of being together.
Performing Bridges is a European partnership exploring how artistic improvisation can support educators, youth workers, and cultural professionals in working with diverse and vulnerable groups.
We focus on listening, co-creation, and shared presence — building bridges between people, practices, and places.
This 12-month Erasmus+ project includes:
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Training programs in Portugal, Latvia, and the Netherlands
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A small-scale festival in Portugal
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A growing digital toolkit of methods and reflections
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An open-access online platform
Partners
Kseniia Oleinikova (Portugal)
Festival & Methodological Development
Kseniia Oleinikova coordinates the Performing Bridges project and leads its implementation in Portugal. She oversees the overall structure of the activities, including the Training Program, the festival component, and the development of the Methodological Toolkit and online resources. Her work focuses on connecting artistic improvisation with practical educational tools and ensuring coherence across all project stages.
Stichting Multiculturele Bruggen (Netherlands)
Training Program & Inclusive Practice
Stichting Multiculturele Bruggen leads the development and delivery of the Training Program. With experience in adult education and social integration, the organisation contributes practical approaches to inclusive learning, intercultural dialogue, and community engagement. Their expertise supports educators in applying improvisation-based methods in diverse and mixed-ability environments.
Larsan Consulting (Latvia)
Dissemination, Networking & Professional Outreach
Larsan Consulting is responsible for dissemination and professional outreach within the project. The organisation supports communication strategies, networking, and evaluation processes to ensure that the project’s results reach educators, youth workers, and cultural professionals across Europe. Their contribution strengthens the visibility and sustainability of the project outcomes.