We would like to take a moment, together with you, to remember Julie Cleves, who was part of the ensemble of Danskompaniet Spinn for many years. On December 20, 2025, Julie passed away at the age of 56.

Julie Cleves was a multifaceted artist who moved between dance, theatre, and visual art. She grew up in Hereford but had lived in London for many years. Julie was there when Spinn was founded 15 years ago and was an important and influential presence during the company’s first eight years. Veera, Spinn’s founder and artistic director, met Julie at the International SUMMER LAB organized by Candoco Dance Company in the UK in 2007.

“I remember that Julie wanted to have a serious talk with me because I was very cautious in our dance encounter. ‘Push harder, I won’t break,’ Julie said. Eventually, we found a more interesting exchange and physicality. Julie was so wonderfully direct and fearless. I was the timid one…”
— Veera Suvalo Grimberg, founder and artistic director of Danskompaniet Spinn

Several of Julie’s former colleagues speak of her strength, energy, and multifaceted artistry.

“On stage, you had a freedom that gave you energy and strength out among the curbstones and wild moss…”
— Emilia Wärff, dancer, Danskompaniet Spinn

They also recall how Julie brightened life with “her absurd humor and the chin massage she refined over the years…”
— Aloun Marchal, former dancer with Danskompaniet Spinn

Julie made many unforgettable stage contributions during her years with Spinn, including in performances such as Obscuro by Favela Vera Ortiz (FI), Imagine by Gilda Stillbäck, and Gård av träd by Tanja Eloranta (FI).

“Now you are in the treetops, embracing us in earthly life with your strong chin, massaging our aching shoulders.”
— Emilia Wärff, dancer, Danskompaniet Spinn