As you may or may not know, the new Jazz Middelheim team has over 10 years of experience organising the Paradise City Festival, one of the most popular dance festivals in Belgium (and one of the most sustainable in the world), taking place in Perk, Steenokkerzeel, on June 27, 28, and 29. It has over seven stages, all with a distinct vibe in dance music - the newest addition is the Barefoot Stage, hosted by Jazz Middelheim.

Nestled among the lush surroundings of Kasteel Ribaucourt's gardens, the Barefoot Stage emerges as a sanctuary where emotions transcend convention. Small in scale yet abundant in soul, this intimate tent embodies a laid-back atmosphere and a profound musical flow. Positioned amidst the verdant embrace near the Forest Stage, its design enfolds warm textures to encourage a gentle pace and heightened connection.

Curated by Jazz Middelheim, renowned for its deep musical insight and progressive programming, this new addition to Paradise City embodies a distinctive ethos: to celebrate music that moves with feeling rather than force. Expect an eclectic blend of soul, funk, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and groove-driven sounds meticulously selected to resonate within this unique setting.

Upon entering, guests are invited to shed their shoes - a symbolic act that echoes the ritual of entering a sacred space. A dedicated check-in system ensures shoes are securely stored, allowing bare feet to commune with the soft ground beneath. The tent's transparent silhouette bathes the space in natural light, while inside, soft fabrics drape from the ceiling, vintage rugs cushion each step, and verdant flora flourishes amongst the wooden fixtures. Here, dancing becomes a grounded, tactile experience.

The Barefoot Stage Line-up boasts an international roster of selectors, including luminaries such as Young Marco, Kikelomo, My Analog Journal, Shonky, Audrey Danza, and CC:DISCO!, alongside local heroes like Nosedrip, Bibi Seck, Hill Men, and Jeroen Delodder. Each artist has been invited to delve deep into their musical repertoire, promising reimagined sets, rare finds, and unexpected journeys that defy convention. This is music curated for feeling, not formula -an invitation to explore the soulful and the funky in unexpected ways.

In partnership with Paradise City, the Barefoot Stage represents a natural evolution. As Jazz Middelheim expands its legacy with a fresh perspective and a new generation of global jazz talent, this collaboration extends the festival's ethos of deep listening and adventurous spirit.

Join us at Paradise City and visit their artist page to find out when your favourite performers will take the stage.