For the theater production “KOBES – ’n merakels spektakel” I composed the piece ‘KOBUS’. The work will premiere in September, performed by the music association Juliana from Den Ham (conducted by Sandra Mulder).
Den Ham once again back in time…
“KOBES – ’n merakels spektakel.”
That’s the title of the new theater production, which will be performed in Den Ham this coming September. The play is based on true stories from Den Ham’s history, with barber Kobes as the central figure. In 1933, he moved from Vriezenveen and started his now-legendary barbershop on the Brink. It is a heartwarming performance about “strange folk”, daring to dream, boundless neighborliness, prejudice, impactful village history, and the unifying power of music during difficult times.
The creators of the successful “Codename Zipper” have been preparing this impressive new theater production—based on an episode from the history of the Brink village Den Ham—for nearly a year. It is partly inspired by the 100-year anniversary of music association Juliana.
Vrömd volk
As an outsider (“vrömde”), barber Kobes was of immense value to the village’s cultural and social life. But not everyone always appreciated his creative and “strange” ideas. Still, the unifying power of music is incredible—it brings people together, even from across borders. The story unfolds across several time periods, with frequent shifts between them. It begins in 1975, during preparations for the revue organized by Kobes to celebrate the 50th anniversary of music association Juliana.
Former Den Ham Resident
KOBES – ‘n merakels spektakel is directed—just like Codename Zipper—by former Den Ham resident Annely Noeverman. She also co-wrote the script, in close collaboration with Laurens ten Den, who is also involved in well-known productions such as Van Jonge Leu en Oale Groond and the TV series Woeste Grond. The project is also supported by professionals from the foundation Theaterproducties Twente, including business director Ellen Wisse.
Performances
Currently, 8 performances are scheduled for September 2025. The dates are: September 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 11, and 13. There will be a try-out on August 30. Tickets for these performances will soon be available via the website www.theaterdenham.nl.
Source: Theater Den Ham