The iconic Dutch musical, 'Soldaat van Oranje' (Soldier of Orange), is preparing to close its curtains after nearly 16 years of astonishing audiences. The final performance is scheduled for July 12, marking the end of an era for one of the country's longest-running theatrical productions. But here’s where it gets controversial: what makes this show so special—and why is it shutting down now? Let’s explore.
Based on the inspiring true story of Erik Hazelhoff Roelfzema, a resistance hero during World War II, the musical chronicles his remarkable journey. Roelfzema was a student at Leiden University when Nazi forces occupied the Netherlands. Instead of succumbing to despair, he went underground, fleeing to England, where he undertook daring missions on behalf of the Dutch royal family in exile. His story is a testament to courage and resilience, vividly brought to life on stage.
The production is performed in a unique, rotating theater — a massive 1,100-seat auditorium housed in a repurposed aircraft hangar situated on a Dutch military base near Katwijk. The set design is notably immersive, featuring a water-filled seascape and an aircraft that taxis to a stop as part of the scene, making each performance a captivating experience.
Since its debut in October 2010, 'Soldaat van Oranje' has been performed approximately 4,000 times and featured 29 different casts, entertaining millions of viewers over the years. The show’s popularity and cultural significance have made it a beloved fixture in Dutch entertainment.
Fred Boot, the producer, described the decision to end the creative journey as a 'major' one. “'Soldaat' has been woven into my life for more than two decades—ever since I first encountered Erik Hazelhoff Roelfzema,” he shared. “It’s hard to imagine life without it.”
The story of Roelfzema was also adapted into a highly acclaimed 1977 film starring Rutger Hauer, and the movie version, directed by Paul Verhoeven, is regarded as one of the finest Dutch films ever made. Roelfzema himself passed away in 2007 at the age of 90.
And this is the part most people miss: while the curtain falls on the musical, the story of resilience and heroism continues to inspire. Do you agree that such monumental works should be preserved forever, or is it natural for cultural icons to evolve or retire? Share your thoughts in the comments — is this a sad farewell or an opportunity for new beginnings?
