Communities & Roots

“If you see someone who isn’t feeling well or is having a bad day, you go over to them and make them feel better. That’s what the dance does to us.”

The quote comes from young participants who have been out dancing in this case, which will be presented at Kulturkraft 2026. How do we create stronger communities through music, cultural heritage, and movement? At Kulturkraft 2026, we will be joined by Fod på Gulv, with an introduction by two of the most prominent profiles at the intersection of culture, social change, and international outlook.

Laia Canals, Director of TEMPI, the national genre organisation for roots music in Denmark. Laia specialises in music and cultural export, strategic leadership, talent development, and network building. With a background as a project manager, artist manager, and export advisor, she drives global partnerships and serves on several Danish and international boards. She is a strong voice for inclusion and diversity in the music industry and, as the first European, she has held a leading position in Folk Alliance International.

Gerda Hempel, Project Manager of the nationwide project Fod på Gulv, where vulnerable and mentally ill participants dance adapted folk dance led by experienced musicians and dance instructors. Gerda specialises in artists, culture, education, and development projects that stimulate innovation, sustainable business models, and new markets for creative freelancers. Her interest in framework conditions for art, culture, and the creative industries has led to a number of positions of trust and board memberships.

Together, they present "Fod på Gulv": An innovative project working to increase mental and physical well-being and community. An award-winning (ARTBEAT Special Prize) and participatory active break, where we don’t just talk about community - we feel it in our bodies.