Renowned Dutch actress Petra Laseur passed away on April 11, 2025, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of theatrical excellence. Her son, Andreas Oerlemans, confirmed her death to the ANP, stating that she passed away peacefully in her Amsterdam home.
Laseur had been suffering from a serious illness for some time, a fact she openly discussed in a podcast last year, where she revealed her decision to forgo treatment. In her own words, she expressed, “I went into the medical mill and decided not to be treated.” This decision allowed her to experience significant family milestones, including her eldest grandson's wedding and her youngest son's 60th birthday, which she cherished deeply. "We experienced a wonderful bonus year with her," Oerlemans reflected, highlighting the precious time they had together.
Born on November 26, 1939, in Amsterdam, Laseur was the daughter of celebrated actress Mary Dresselhuys. Despite her family's theatrical background, she faced restrictions at her school, which did not allow students to participate in school plays. Undeterred, she enrolled in the Amsterdam Toneelschool, graduating in 1959. Shortly after, she began her illustrious career with the Nederlandse Comedie, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in the performing arts.
Throughout her career, Laseur was recognized for her exceptional talent, winning multiple prestigious awards, including two Theo d'Ors for her outstanding performances in Hedda Gabler (1972) and Groot en Klein (1981). She also received the Colombina for her role in Oom Wanja (1969), further solidifying her status as one of the Netherlands' leading actresses.
Her extensive repertoire included both stage and screen performances. Laseur captivated audiences in various television series, such as De stille kracht (1974) and Rozengeur & Wodka Lime (2005). She also appeared in films, including the adaptations of De ontdekking van de hemel and Familie, showcasing her versatility across different mediums.
In 2011, Laseur portrayed Queen Wilhelmina in the acclaimed musical Soldaat van Oranje, a role that was both a highlight of her career and a testament to her enduring talent. Her performances were marked by clarity and emotional depth, making her a beloved figure in Dutch theater.
Beyond her acting career, Laseur was known for her social engagement. She served as an ambassador for the Nierstichting and was involved in various charitable initiatives. In 2007, inspired by the BNN program De Grote Donorshow, she even considered donating a kidney, although she later opted out of the procedure due to the conditions of the hospital.
Despite her illustrious career, Laseur maintained a down-to-earth attitude. She often humorously recounted stories from her life, including her preference for a private room during her hospital stay and her distinct approach to family life. As a grandmother, she was involved but allowed her grandchildren the freedom to grow without interference, except when it came to their safety.
In her later years, Laseur continued to attend theater performances regularly, particularly at her favorite venues in Amsterdam. She was known for her love of gardening, often seen tending to her plants on her houseboat in Weesp, where she found tranquility and inspiration.
Her impact on the Dutch theater scene was profound, not only for her performances but also for her role in nurturing upcoming talent. Since 1992, she had been awarding the Mary Dresselhuys Prize, named after her mother, to honor contributions to the theatrical arts.
Laseur's passing has left a significant void in the Dutch cultural landscape. Her funeral is scheduled for April 18, 2025, in private, but the public will have the opportunity to pay their respects in the Mary Dresselhuys-zaal at Theater DeLaMar in Amsterdam that same day. This venue, named in honor of her mother, symbolizes the deep-rooted connections Laseur had with her family and the arts.
As tributes pour in from fans and fellow artists alike, it is clear that Petra Laseur will be remembered not only for her remarkable contributions to theater but also for her vibrant spirit and the joy she brought to those around her. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of actors and actresses.
