Jiří Kylián’s recent interview with *The Guardian* is a reminder of why he remains one of dance’s most compelling voices. His humility—*"I must have done something right!"*—contrasts with the fierce intelligence behind his choreography. At a time when contemporary dance often leans into spectacle, Kylián’s work endures because it prioritizes emotional truth over empty virtuosity.
What’s striking is his refusal to cater to critics. Dance, like any art, suffers when creators obsess over approval. Kylián’s reference to the *"Ministry of Silly Walks"* feels like a sly jab at those who reduce movement to gimmicks. His festival isn’t just a retrospective; it’s a challenge to audiences—*engage deeply, or don’t bother.*
In 2025, where trends vanish faster than a TikTok clip, Kylián’s philosophy feels radical: Make art that demands something of us. No algorithms, no shortcuts. Just bodies speaking the unspoken. That’s why his work still resonates—it’s not about steps, but the stories they carry.
Dance needs more of this fearlessness. Not every walk needs to be silly. Some should leave us breathless.
