[heading style=”1″]On 30 April, Amsterdam’s Museumplein is set to be transformed into the Oranjeplein (‘Orange Square’). [/heading]
The LAST Queen’s Day for now! After 128 years of Queen’s Day celebrations this year will be the last Queensday for now, and Amsterdam is determined to party like never before!!
During the day, the free Orange Festival caters to families with performances by famous Dutch artists before the King’s Dance takes over in the evening. 3,000 seats are being made available to offer additional comfort to visitors during the evening programme. These tickets cost 10 euros with the proceeds of the tickets being donated to Jeugdcultuurfonds Amsterdam (the Amsterdam Youth Culture Fund).
Morning activities
Visitors are invited to follow the ceremonies linked to the inauguration live on large screens from 10:00 onwards. The ceremonies will be interspersed with a varied stage programme suitable for the entire family. After the royal family have made an appearance on the balcony of the Royal Palace, the celebrations will kick-off with a party especially for children. Presented by Monique Smit, the Children’s Dance features performances by the 3JS, Tim Douwsma and Aliyah & Monsif.
Afternoon activities
A spectacular pop concert follows at 15:30 with performances by Dutch musical stars of the stage VanVelzen and Alain Clark. The show also sees VanVelzen pay tribute to Queen Beatrix and the new king and queen by performing a selection of Queen’s greatest hits. For his Tribute to the Queen, VanVelzen has invited artists including Waylon, Miss Montreal and Sandra van Nieuwland to join him on stage. Royal images will accompany the concert which is hosted by Dutch comedian Najib Amhali.
Evening activities
Hosted by celebrated Dutch violinist, conductor and composer André Rieu, the King’s Dance begins at 21:15. Andre Rieu’s entire orchestra will be joined by dozens of guests as they play the King’s Waltz, especially composed by Rieu for the occasion. Actor André van Duin, André Rieu and Martijn Fischer (who plays Dutch folk icon André Hazes in the musical Hij Gelooft in Mij) will spice up proceedings as ‘The Three Andrés’.
By offering financial and organisational support to the Museumplein event, The Nationale Postcode Loterij aims to contribute to a sense of unity on this historic occasion. The entertainment programme was compiled by Stage Entertainment.
[heading style=”1″]You’ve seen the pictures! You’ve heard the stories! This year, be a part of the grandest, craziest and orange-st farewell party ever held for a Queen![/heading]
