ECHO – Immersive Experiences for Cultural Heritage

ECHO is a European collaborative project exploring how immersive technologies and artistic methods can create new ways of experiencing, understanding and communicating cultural heritage. Together with partners from several European countries, Aira Dance Company contributes perspectives from Sápmi and works to ensure that local communities, cultural knowledge and ethical considerations are included from the very beginning of the development process.

The project runs from 2026 to 2029 and is co-funded by the European Union’s Creative Europe programme.

Sápmi Dance Network is a unique collaboration connecting professional Sami dancers and choreographers from across the Nordic countries. Through physical gatherings, digital meetings, workshops, and knowledge exchanges, the network creates a vibrant community, promoting Sami contemporary dance and strengthening its recognition throughout the Nordic region and beyond.

Jillat Library is a dual initiative that builds a physical library of essential books for the performing arts and dance, while also establishing a digital archive to record and safeguard Sami performing arts for future research and cultural preservation.

Jillat Youth is a community-driven project designed to give local children a creative and playful alternative to traditional sports. Through five themed evenings featuring games, movement activities, art workshops, and digital Minecraft building, the project transforms Jillat – Samiskt Danscenter into a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and youth innovation.

Jillat Workplace is a dynamic initiative (2025–2030) that provides an inspiring, professional hub for dance professionals and artists.

Through quarterly intensive work weeks featuring participant-led dance classes, creative workshops, and expert lectures on funding and project development, the project fosters innovation, networking, and professional growth across northern Sweden's cultural landscape.

Jillat Live is a structured platform for regular cultural events in Vuollerim, featuring high-caliber performances in music, dance, and theatre.

Designed to strengthen the local arts scene and foster community engagement, the project ensures that live performances become a sustainable part of the region’s cultural landscape.

Jillat Creative Process is both a development hub for in-house productions and a supportive residency program for artists seeking to bring their creative visions to life.

By providing professional resources, mentorship, and an inspiring environment, we foster groundbreaking artistic work in dance, theatre, music, and interdisciplinary performance.