Simone van Slooten

When did you first visit Dutch National Opera & Ballet?
“My mother worked at Dutch National Ballet, so I’ve been going to the theatre from a young age, both backstage and for performances.”

What is your favourite production by Dutch National Opera & Ballet and why?
“The Nutcracker and the Mouse King will always be a favourite, along with Swan Lake. These productions are exceptionally beautiful, and I could listen to Tchaikovsky’s music endlessly. The works of Hans van Manen also resonate with me, and Blake Works I by Forsythe from the 2022-2023 season has quickly become one of my top picks.”

What makes Dutch National Opera & Ballet special for you?
“The consistently high quality of both opera and ballet, along with the vast production capabilities. From costumes and props to sets and technical aspects, anything is possible, and this energy and innovation are truly remarkable.”

Classical opera with a new twist or an innovative new production?
“Both can be enjoyable, but as opera is still quite new to me, I’d opt for classical opera with a new twist.”

If you could have one costume from a production of Dutch National Opera & Ballet, perfectly in your size, what would you choose?
“The costume of the Lilac Fairy from The Sleeping Beauty.”