Sjoerd Koolma (they, them) (°1994, Bodegraven, NL) studied at the MBO Theaterschool in Rotterdam after training as a chef in Gouda. Sjoerd then followed a musical theatre course at Codarts in Rotterdam and a teacher's theatre course at Artez in Arnhem. The desire to become an actor remained however, and Sjoerd decided to continue studying drama at KASK in Ghent.

About their work, Koolma says: ‘I think what differentiates my work at this point is the search for how the self can be given a deeper and honest space on scene. How can I make vulnerability and sensitivity part of the performance?’

During season 24-25, Sjoerd Koolma, together with Gilles Pollak and Sarah Ringoet, is one of three artists participating in NTGent XS, NTGent's residency for creators of the new generation.

Credits image Anna Perger