Dutch National Opera

Hup Herman!

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Photo: Michiel Spijkers

Dates

24 September 2023 - 12 May 2024

Location

Dutch National Opera & Ballet, Studio Boekman & Tour

Running time

0:40

Tickets

Read-aloud opera based on the book by Yvonne Jagtenberg (3+)

Herman the pot-bellied pig doesn’t like competitions. He thinks they’re a hassle. But the chickens cackle loudly every morning about who is the first, the best or the fastest. One day, Herman has had enough. Now he’ll show them who is the fastest. All the animals cheer him on. But does it really matter whether you win or lose?

Photo: Michiel Spijkers

Read-aloud opera based on the book by Yvonne Jagtenberg (3+)

Opera can be grandiose and spectacular but it can also be modest and intimate. One picture book, two actors and a few instruments – these are the ingredients for this read-aloud opera for the littlest ones.

For and with children

Actor Harpert Michielsen and musician Joost Brouwer play and sing the story of Herman for and with the children in the audience. It is a story, put to music, of the joys of writhing in the mud, of the urge to be the best, and of the discovery that it’s OK to be happy as you are. A smallscale production that carries big messages.

How a pot-bellied pig can still be a hero

Performance information

Text and illustrations Yvonne Jagtenberg
Concept, music and performance Harpert Michielsen en Joost Brouwer
Dramaturgy Wout van Tongeren
Stage direction advice Eric Robillard

School performances
A number of performances will be given especially for schools.

More information

Picture book about brave little pig becomes libretto for fantastically fun rock opera - There's rhythm in the chickens' tapping, so why not turn it into a rap? And where before did you hear such a beautifully sensitive ballad about the delicious smell of poo when rolling in the mud?

21 April

Kindermuziekweek

The national Kindermuziekweek is an initiative of 13 major Dutch music institutions that have joined forces to create an annual 10-day Kindermuziekweek. Dutch National Opera & Ballet participates in this joyful week, as it does every year.

The Kindermuziekweek makes Golden Music Wishes come true!

Ever wanted to don an opera costume? Take the stage with an orchestra? Or dance on the grand stage? Whatever your Golden Music Wish may be, the Kindermuziekweek might just make it come true!

Submit your Golden Music Wish during the Kindermuziekweek from 5 to 14 April at Dutch National Opera & Ballet or a wish location near you. And with a bit of luck, your Golden Music Wish could be granted! Can’t make it to the location yourself? You can also submit your Golden Music Wish online here from 5 to 14 April.