The Dance Oasis structure is a modular, adaptive sculpture who’s goal is to harbor dancers, creating a safe and exciting place to let loose. It’s first deployment on the main square in Kalmar, Sweden was for a project in collaboration with the city tourist agency Destination Kalmar. Our goal was to bring out the cities living dance culture, demonstrating proudly that Kalmar is an active and daring community. Our dilemma was how do we make a public dance workshops on a very “visible” square without people feeling too self-conscious to join?
The structure marked out an inviting area around the stage without completely isolating it from the passing public. It became a beacon and a shield, a divider that helped people get closer to the action. Its whimsical colors and shape brought a light hearted energy to playfulness to the austere square.
Our goal is to work with other municipalities, cities and festivals to create more welcoming and energizing temporary spaces that allow guests to relax their social anxiety and enjoy dance, movement, and music more directly. The Dance Oasis structure can be assembled in different shapes and expressions, making it adaptable to a variety of different contexts and needs.
Documentation from the first Deployment: Kalmar, Sweden, June 2026
A Dance Oasis opened on Larmtorget in Kalmar for the last Saturday in June, ushering in the summer with fresh international dance and music! There were free workshops in Salsa, Tango, Reggaeton and House Dance with teachers from the local dance community!Featuring: Kalmar Dansar, MDANCE, RawBurt, and Kalmarsunds Tangoförening
Smalånd Massive built a sculptural dance pavilion out of layered textiles, creating a cozy area in the middle of Larmtorget to let loose those dancing feet. Sponsored by Destination Kalmar.
No previous experience needed. All ages and abilities welcome.
Program:
12:00 Tango showcase and workshop med Kalmarsunds Tangoförening
13:00 Salsa and Bachata showcase and workshop med Kalmar Dansar
14:00 Reggaeton workshop med MDANCE
15:00 House Dance workshop med RawBurt
16:00 Fri dans i alla stilar med Småland Massive
Max Syron 