On April 16, 2025, the annual Musical Awards Gala took place at the AFAS Theater in Leusden, showcasing the best of Dutch musical theater. Among the highlights of the evening, the audience award for best musical went to 40-45, De Musical, a production that has captured the hearts of many.
Despite its popularity, 40-45, De Musical was not the standout winner of the night, as that honor went to Elisabeth, which took home an impressive six awards. The gala, hosted by Frits Sissing and Marlijn Weerdenburg, featured various performances from the nominated musicals, adding to the evening's festive atmosphere.
One notable moment of the night involved Dorian Bindels, who was nominated for the award for best male lead in a large musical. Bindels made a dramatic entrance, arriving by helicopter from Terneuzen, where he was rehearsing for a role in The Passion. He is set to play Jesus in the production, which opens the following day.
Although Bindels did not win the award—losing out to Martijn Noort for his performance in Moulin Rouge!—he remained gracious. In a pre-gala interview with ANP, he expressed his contentment with being nominated, stating, “I’m also very happy with the nomination, even if I don’t win.” His positive attitude resonated with many fans who admired his dedication to both productions.
The gala was not without its controversies. Viewers at home took to social media to express their opinions on the evening's fashion, particularly critiquing the dress worn by presenter Marlijn Weerdenburg. Comments ranged from admiration to outright disapproval, with one viewer stating, "The dress does not suit her at all," reflecting a broader debate about fashion choices at high-profile events.
In total, the Musical Awards presented accolades across twenty categories, celebrating the diverse talents within the Dutch musical scene. The event not only recognized established works like Elisabeth but also highlighted emerging productions that are making waves in the industry.
As the night progressed, performances from the casts of Moulin Rouge! and Elisabeth captivated the audience, showcasing the incredible talent that continues to thrive in the world of musical theater. The energy in the theater was palpable, a testament to the dedication of the artists and the enthusiasm of the fans.
The Musical Awards Gala serves as a reminder of the cultural richness that musicals bring to the Netherlands. With productions like 40-45, De Musical and Elisabeth leading the charge, the future of Dutch musical theater looks bright, promising even more exciting performances and stories to come.
As the final awards were handed out and the curtain fell on the evening, it was clear that the spirit of camaraderie and competition is alive and well in the world of musicals. The 2025 gala not only celebrated achievements but also set the stage for future talents to shine.
