Theater producer Albert Verlinde hopes to win prizes during the Musical Awards: ‘Audience has embraced the adventure’

Theater producer Albert Verlinde hopes to win an award on Wednesday with Jesus Christ Superstar during the annual Musical Awards. He wishes that the people who are not on stage would also win a prize. “People who have created the most beautiful decor, directors or choreographers, you name it,” says Verlinde in Goedemorgen Nederland on NPO 1.

The 22nd edition of the ‘Musical Awards Gala’ offers a wide range of genres and styles. Jesus Christ Superstar received fourteen nominations. The compelling story of Jesus and his apostles has been shown in a new guise in Dutch theaters since January. “Musical is live entertainment. Of Jesus Christ Superstar I also experience for myself what it means when you celebrate this profession together, from technicians to musicians. That is the most beautiful thing you can experience,” says Verlinde.

He sees that the audience has embraced adventure this season. In addition to major productions, people also go to small-scale theater shows in large numbers, such as the cabaret musical Far from your bed. “They are all standing in line, the theaters are filled and they are celebrating.”

Competitors

During the annual crème de la crème of the Dutch musical industry, this year there is also a lot of attention for smaller productions. “These are also great contenders,” says Verlinde. “Sometimes there are only four to six people on stage. They are creative adventures and are really a trend.”

He is also pleased that there is a lot of attention for large productions on location, such as The trip in Leeuwarden, where visitors are caught up in the Frisian Elfstedentocht fever. According to Verlinde, the productions are special because they have to play in theaters and environments, which is not standard in the theater world. “It’s good that attention is being paid to this.”

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Seeking adventure

Theater productions that are given a new look should not deviate too far from the original, says Verlinde. People come in expecting their wonderful memories to be rekindled. “Once people are inside, it is best to take them by the hand and let them seek adventure. That you show that you can also tell the story differently.”

According to Verlinde, theater lovers are in for another great year, with productions such as Frozen in Scheveningen and Moulin Rouge in Utrecht.

The presentation of the Musical Awards will take place on Wednesday evening in the AFAS Theater in Leusden. As with the previous edition, Marlijn Weerdenburg and Frits Sissing have the honor of presenting the live show.

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