Of subsidised performing arts producers (members of NAPK), 62% experience pressure or (self)censorship when developing new productions.

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Amsterdam, 11 March 2026 - A recent survey of its members shows that 62% of subsidised performing arts producers in the Netherlands experience pressure or (self-)censorship in determining the theme, form or content of their performances. This covers a broad spectrum of disciplines, including theatre, dance, music (theatre) and performing arts festivals.

Creators and programmers indicate that social sensitivities, pressure and audience expectations play a role in the content choices they make. This development affects the artistic freedom and diversity of the offer. Some themes are avoided or toned down to avoid possible resistance.

Mirjam Terpstra, director of NAPK:
“Art is pre-eminently the place for free imagination, contradiction and experimentation. That a significant proportion of our members report feeling limits to that freedom should be a wake-up call for us.”

Next Monday 16 March, NAPK is organising a meeting on this topic entitled: Artistic freedom: how the performing arts can contribute to (maintaining) a tolerant and democratic society. With substantive contributions from, among others, Prof Dr Hans Boutellier, Kunsten ’92 and the Council for Culture.

On that afternoon, NAPK will also present a toolkit with tips and practical tools for creators and companies to protect artistic freedom.