Beyond Darklands

Carmen, fetish & fatal attraction

We are delighted to welcome you to the eighth edition of Beyond Classic in the beautiful and historic AMUZ. Each year, this concert aims to do more than present exceptional artistry. It seeks to speak with intention.

In recent years, we have all witnessed increasing polarization and a decline in values such as acceptance, hospitality and empathy, especially toward those who face exclusion. Even within our Queer community, moments of shame and hesitation too often replace the pride that once carried us forward and empowered us for decades. Across the world, anti-gender and anti-queer attitudes continue to rise, driven by fear and stereotypes.

The fetish community has always possessed a powerful language of resistance, expression and courage. Beyond Classic uses that voice to affirm a message of humanism and solidarity. Over time, this concert has developed its own story, one that brings together people with different backgrounds, identities, philosophies and passions. Those who join us tonight share a curiosity to learn from each other, to connect, to be moved and to be inspired. We believe firmly in the strength that grows from meeting, discovering and expressing ourselves without shame.

This evening, every artist on stage embraces and communicates that vision through music and dance.

Beyond Classic Antwerp is created entirely by volunteers and all artists offer their performances as a gift. With the generous support of our partners and sponsors covering most production costs, we are able to raise the maximum possible amount for our chosen charities.

Opera icon Iris Vermillion brings her extraordinary voice to Beyond Classic, joined by Susanne Elmark, Justin Habermann, Dietrich Henschel and Gregory Frateur for an evening of unforgettable highlights from the operatic world.

This edition also features a brand-new creation by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, one of the most influential choreographers of our time, who presents a new work crafted especially for Beyond Classic and performed by two exceptional dancers.

Cast & crew

Keynote
Suzanne van de Laar: Miss Leather 2019,
Chair stichting Amsterdam Pride & Worldpride 2026

Singers
Susanne Elmark: Soprano
Iris Vermillion: Mezzosoprano
Justin Habermann: Tenor
Dietrich Henschel: Bass Baritone
Gregory Frateur: Singer songwriter performer

Dramaturgy & Moderation
Thomas Höft

Choreographer
Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui

Dancers
Nelson Earl (Eastman)
Mason Kelly (Eastman)

Musicians (Fetish Baroque)
Barbara Konrad, violin 1
Agata Front, violin 2
Gunda HagmĂĽller-Wieninger, viola
Sylvain Rullier, violoncello
Georg Kroneis, double bass
Sofie Vanden Eynde, theorbo
Ivan Trenev, accordion
Michael Hell, harpsichord & recorder

Production
Musical Director: Michael Hell Artistic
Director: Georg Kroneis Production Director: Bart Abeel

Tickets

Tickets are now available in the Beyond Darklands ticket shop.

Category A
Category B
Category C
Category D
Category E

Beneficiaries

Beyond Classic Antwerp is organised by volunteers. Most of the production costs (venue rent, musicians, sound and lights, and catering) are donated by our generous partners and sponsors. This way, we can generate the maximum amount of money
from the concert to donate to charity.

2026: Fetish@Pride.Amsterdam

The proceeds from Beyond Classic 2026 will go to Fetish@Pride.Amsterdam and the travel funds of thetitleholders elected during Beyond Darklands. With this support, we help the iconic Fetish Boat sail in the Canal Parade at next year’s WorldPride in Amsterdam, a powerful symbol of visibility, safety and connection. Fetish is not just style, it’s history, resistance and self-expression. From the canals of Amsterdam to the dance floors of Beyond Darklands, we celebrate pride, freedom and the right to be yourself.

Fetish@Pride.Amsterdam 2025

Jeroen Van Lievenoogen donating $ 5000 to Leather Archives & Museum.

2025: Leather Archives & Museum

Last year’s proceeds went to the Leather Archives & Museum and the travel funds of the titleholders elected at Darklands.

The LA&M is one of the most significant accomplishments of the late 20th century movement for the rights, dignity, improved status, and self-acceptance of the leather and kink populations.

The museum recently launched a campaign to raise $ 2 million for much-needed renovations including making the entire collection wheelchair accessible.

Impressions

Discover what Beyond Classic is about in the videos and pictures below.