THE ABDICATION OF KING PHILIPPE

POLINA AKHMETZYANOVA, WILLEM OOREBEEK, CYRIAQUE VILLEMAUX

2M3, BRUSSELS 

DECEMBER 20, 2024










Molenbeek on a wet December evening. From the Count of Flanders to King Philip's abdication is a short walk. 
Greeting in a homely waiting room atmosphere with a pint. 
Three characters in slippers and pyjama trousers begin to move. Shuffling feet create a rhythm that fills the room. The order shifts fluently, without becoming erratic. The cadence remains, no one is out of step for long. 
The movement stops. Words are spoken, for the first and last time. 
Socks come off. An intimate gesture, though bare feet quickly slip back into slippers. 
The cotton pouches are exchanged. 
A brief bow. Applause ushering in the final act.
Epaulettes as decoration, marking the end of kingship. 
And then, an exuberant round dance. Long live the republic! 





Raymond Maes