An impressive premiere of *Kogel in de Kont* at the Zandvoorts Museum

On Friday, June 26, the Zandvoorts Museum hosted the first pilot performance of “Zandvoort Vertelt.” The play *Kogel in de Kont* premiered that evening. Outside, a code red heat warning was in effect. Inside, visitors enjoyed an impressive theatrical experience in the cool Panorama Zandvoort.

A bullet in the butt

“Kogel in de Kont” is a twenty-minute play. The story is based on the memories of Thys Ockersen, a filmmaker from Zandvoort. As an adult, he looks back on his childhood in postwar Zandvoort. Through his memories, we get to know his neighbors, Puck and Jan. Their story is about war, silence, courage, guilt, and difficult choices. It shows how events continue to have an impact for generations. It also makes it clear that personal stories keep our heritage alive.

Penny Vos wrote and directed the performance. Jurko van Veenendaal, Marijtje Rutgers, and Martin Stritzko brought the story to life in a compelling way. They performed at Panorama Zandvoort. The intimate venue enhanced the audience’s experience. The performance moved many visitors and brought local history to life.

The Zandvoort Museum is proud to have been chosen to host this first production of “Zandvoort Vertelt.” This initiative collects remarkable stories from Zandvoort and brings them back to life, which aligns perfectly with the museum’s mission. We preserve, share, and tell the history of Zandvoort for current and future generations.

We look back with pleasure on a successful evening. We’d like to thank the creators, actors, partners, volunteers, and visitors for their enthusiasm. Together, we brought a special story to life. We look forward to a sequel to *Kogel in de Kont* and to new stories that continue to connect our history.