Visiting the theater like a professional

‘Our generation’ is not exactly a fervent theater-goer. If we do have a cultural evening, it’s usually a visit to the cinema or a concert (oh well, a festival visit is of course also very cultural), but if you look around in the theater halls, the average age is double mine, while truly fantastic things are being made. And certainly not just those difficult-to-understand plays that you have to say intelligent things about afterwards, but really cool performances that are at least as spectacular as a concert or festival. Plus: such a visit to the theater is really a night out. Everyone dresses up for the occasion, enjoys a nice bite at the theater restaurant beforehand, and afterwards you have a drink and chat in the foyer. Now that the theater season has just started again, I think this is the perfect moment to delve into the offerings and just book one. To help you a bit on your way, I’ve put together a nice selection of different shows, plus a few theater tips. I promise you: you won’t regret it.

•  This musical is an absolute must-see: ‘Was getekend, Annie M.G. Schmidt’. Simone Kleinsma is widely praised for her portrayal of the title role. Even for those who are not so fond of musicals, this show is highly recommended. It can be seen until December at the DeLaMar theater.

  Tip: Reserve a break arrangement at the DeLaMar theater: during the intermission of the performance, a table will be ready for you with delicious appetizers and a glass of bubbles. Now that’s what I call a party!

• Meanwhile, Halina Reijn has been performing her solo ‘La Voix Humaine’ from the International Theater Amsterdam for nine years, and still, almost every show is completely sold out. We see a woman having a phone conversation with her ex in the hope of undoing the breakup between them. In September, you can see the performance at the Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam, and believe me: you want to see this show.

  Tip: At the Stadsschouwburg, those under 27 can ‘Sprint’: one hour before the show starts, you can enter for 10 euros (if there are still tickets available). With a bit of luck, you’ll be sitting in the front row for a bargain.

• Wunderbaum is one of my favorite theater companies; their performances always address a current theme and they often perform on location. You really should have seen something from them. The show ‘The history of my stiffness’ will be shown in November at Frascati.

  Tip: Make sure to have a bite to eat in the Nes beforehand. There are plenty of nice restaurants here that often offer a theater menu, so you’ll be ready in time for the show. One of my favorites is the Italian restaurant Mappa.