Daniel Zijl

Name: Daniel Zijl

Birthday: 21-08-2000 

"Theatre is not a luxury, but a right." - Ritsaert ten Cate 

Who are you as a teacher and creator?

My work starts from raw, true stories and doesn't shy away from confrontation. My work balances between social urgency and vulnerable intimacy. I'm not afraid to reveal parts of myself onstage, because I believe you have to open up a part of yourself to connect with the audience. As a teacher, I bring peace and enthusiasm, and above all, dedication. I seek trust in every child, because I believe that's where growth begins.

What inspires or fascinates you?

The world and all its stories, which you can't find if you look for them, are an endless source of inspiration for me. I have a huge fascination with contradictions; we long for peace but become restless in silence, we seek freedom but feel lost without rules, we desire honesty but rarely tolerate the truth. I always try to incorporate this contradiction into my work.

What are your ambitions and wishes for the future?

I want to work with children with disabilities because they have just as much right to development, expression, and self-confidence as anyone else. They are often held back by a world that doesn't fully support them. With patience and commitment, I want to change that. At the same time, I would like to continue creating theatre, based on the belief that stories can touch, resonate, and raise awareness.

"Two lame walk together straight. The importance of theatre in special education"

Tell us something about your profile/research.

Theatre is indispensable in special education. It strengthens social, emotional, cognitive, and motor development and offers a safe space where children can express themselves and practice real life. Especially for those who need extra support, theatre makes visible what is possible. It deserves a permanent place in education, not a sideshow. It's not a luxury, but a right.

Internships

• Theatre and cultural and artistic lessons for pre-vocational secondary education (VMBO) and ISK students at the Etty Hillesum Lyceum Stormink in Deventer
• Theatre lessons at the Fiduciaschool (special education school)
• Children's support for "Stem Kwijt," a performance of "Het Houten Huis" (The Wooden House)
• Theatre lessons for children at the Lyndensteyn Special Education School in Beesterzwaag
• Theatre lessons for children at Artiance, a centre for the arts in Alkmaar