a musical tribute to freedom unfolds in delft

a musical tribute to freedom unfolds in delft

2026-02-08 binnenland

Delft, zondag, 8 februari 2026.
the life of willem van oranje, the father of the dutch nation, takes center stage in a grand new musical premiering in delft. performed in the specially built prinsentheater, the production immerses audiences in 16th-century history through sweeping visuals and a rotating auditorium. willem’s transformation from nobleman to leader of the dutch revolt against spanish rule forms the heart of the story. themes of freedom, belief, and resistance resonate throughout. one actor traces his own roots to brussels’ execution square. the show marks a cultural milestone, merging national heritage with modern storytelling.

a musical tribute to freedom unfolds in delft

The life of Willem van Oranje, known as the Father of the Netherlands, is now portrayed in a major new musical debuting in Delft. Staged at the newly constructed Prinsentheater, the production uses large-scale projections, immersive 360-degree sets, and a rotating auditorium to transport audiences into the 16th century [1]. The story charts Willem’s evolution from privileged nobleman to central figure in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule [2]. Themes of personal conviction, religious freedom, and resistance remain strikingly relevant today [3]. Actor Vincent Linthorst, who plays rebel fighter De Waard, draws parallels between past struggles and present-day issues [4]. His character helped ignite popular uprisings that led to the Iconoclastic Fury, reflecting how oppression fuels rebellion [4].

historical depth meets theatrical innovation

Directed by Theu Boermans, known for Soldaat van Oranje, the musical combines live performance with cinematic elements to create an emotionally powerful experience [5]. The creative team includes composer Rick Engelkes, whose initial involvement began in 2014 but faced delays due to financial disputes over pandemic support funds [6]. After a reset in 2023, the project resumed under Boermans’ leadership [6]. Over 35 actors and 40 extras perform across elaborate scenes depicting key moments such as the Dutch uprising and political intrigue [5]. Performances take place on a revolving stage accommodating nearly 1,200 guests, placing viewers inside the action [7]. This technical ambition underscores the production’s scale and artistic seriousness [8].

delft’s deep ties to national identity

Performing this story in Delft adds profound symbolic weight. In 1572, Willem established himself at the former Saint Agatha convent—now the Museum Prinsenhof—from where he led the Dutch Revolt [9]. He was assassinated in the city twelve years later, and his tomb remains in the Nieuwe Kerk, a national monument visited annually [9]. The proximity of these real locations to the Prinsentheater strengthens the connection between past and present [9]. According to Jos de Mooij of Platform Bezoekerseconomie Delft, the musical enhances civic awareness by intertwining tourism, education, and cultural expression [9]. Visitors are encouraged to extend their experience beyond the theatre through guided walks tracing Willem’s footsteps [9].

a legacy brought to life through art

Lead actor Joris Willem Smit portrays Willem van Oranje with introspective intensity, capturing both his strategic mind and moral dilemmas [6]. Co-stars include Anne Lamsvelt as Louise de Coligny and Roben Mitchell as Philip II, adding emotional and political dimensions [6]. Theu Boermans stated that without Willem’s leadership, the Netherlands might never have emerged as an independent nation [4]. The production emphasizes universal values—freedom of belief, self-determination—that continue to shape democratic societies [3]. By staging the premiere on February 8, 2026—the same day in history when Willem took office as governor—it honors historical authenticity [1]. The run continues exclusively in Delft until at least April 30, 2026 [6].

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musical Willem van Oranje