Freek de Jonge, the iconic Dutch cabaret artist, is set to deliver his much-anticipated Christmas conference titled 'Peace on Earth' on December 25, 2024, airing on NPO2. This poignant performance aims to address the perennial question of how humanity can peacefully coexist amid the often turbulent backdrop of global affairs.
For seventy minutes, de Jonge will take audiences on a whirlwind tour through history, shedding light on the violent struggles of humanity and the pressing issues of today, where over one hundred million people are currently displaced due to conflict and political instability. He poignantly reflects on the state of the world, stating, “Vrede is moeilijker te verkopen dan een onfris drankje dat slecht is voor de gezondheid.” ("Peace is harder to sell than an unpleasant drink that's bad for your health.") This captures the challenging realities of promoting peace amid rising global tensions.
De Jonge's work holds significant weight, especially when considering the political climate, where populist leaders often promise to maintain the status quo, appealing to voters' deepest fears instead of addressing the root causes of discord. During the performance, he critiques not only the violent past of humanity but also the social dynamics fuelling contemporary issues, such as the rise of authoritarianism and nationalistic rhetoric across Europe.
He revealed more about his long career, sharing personal anecdotes about the challenges of stage performances. At times, he reflected on the nerves and forgetfulness he has faced, admitting, “Toen ik veertig was, kon ik in mijn hoofd op vijf sporen tegelijk denken.” ("When I was forty, I could think on five tracks at once.") Today, the artist tackles each show with fresh eyes, acknowledging the imperfections with humility. He discusses one show where he forgot to include a joke about Dutch politician Pieter Omtzigt, adding, “Die zat er nu niet in, en dat vind ik goed.” ("That one wasn't included, and I think that's fine.") His candid approach resonates strongly with audiences, allowing for genuine moments of laughter and introspection.
The upcoming holiday special not only fits within the festive season but also emerges as a timely commentary on the current sociopolitical climate. It serves to remind us of our shared humanity and the collective responsibility we bear in striving for peace, aligning perfectly with the spirit of Christmas.
Throughout 'Peace on Earth', de Jonge promises to blend humor with serious reflections, shedding light on areas where societal fractures appear. His art remains relevant, offering insights on what it means to live together compassionately and with dignity. The conference not only endeavors to entertain but also to provoke thought on how individuals can contribute to creating harmonious coexistence.
Audiences are encouraged to tune in on Christmas Day for this remarkable exposition of hope, humanity, and the quest for peace. De Jonge's ability to blend historical reflection with immediate social critique epitomizes why he remains one of the most beloved figures in Dutch entertainment, continuously captivating audiences with his insights.
His upcoming performances and evaluations of past works promise to reflect back on how he has evolved as both an artist and thinker. It’s yet another opportunity for audiences to engage with de Jonge’s wisdom and wit, delving deep not only for laughter but also for meaningful discourse on peace and societal engagements.
