In 1940, the Dutch royal family fled the Nazi invasion of the Netherlands. They eventually found refuge in Ottawa, where Princess Margriet Francisca was born. Canadian soldiers later went on to liberate the Netherlands at the end of the Second World War. The royal family expressed their gratitude by giving Ottawa thousands of tulip bulbs, whose bright colours joyfully transform the city every spring.
The warm friendship between Canada and the Netherlands will soon be on full display at the NAC thanks to performances by some of the country’s best artists. Nederlands Dans Theater is one of the world’s preeminent dance companies and its long-awaited return will be a highlight of the NAC Dance season (March 17 and 18 in Southam Hall). Their phenomenal triple bill includes The Statement by the internationally renowned choreographer Crystal Pite, a Vancouver dance artist with a long relationship with the NAC.
On March 21, Dutch cellist Harriet Krijgh and Dutch violinist Simone Lamsma make a welcome return to Southam Hall to perform Michel van der Aa’s Double Concerto for Violin and Cello, conducted by rising star Jessica Cottis.
Long live the friendship between Canada and the Netherlands!