The fifteenth edition of The Passion, a musical retelling of the Easter story, aired live from Terneuzen on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 20:00 on NPO 1. This year’s performance featured a star-studded cast and a selection of contemporary songs that resonated with audiences.
The opening song of the event was "Horizon" by the popular Dutch band Bløf, setting a poignant tone for the evening. The lyrics of "Horizon" explore themes of hope and the pursuit of dreams, which are central to the Easter narrative. Other songs performed during the event included "Vlieg met me mee," "Psycho," "Ik ben bij je," "Waterdicht," and "Zwart-wit." Each song brought its own emotional weight to the performance, enhancing the storytelling.
Esmee Joanna van Oostende, a local talent from Gouda, played one of the disciples in this year's production. Known for her vibrant presence on social media, with over a million followers on TikTok, Esmee has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She previously collaborated with the artist Adje on an EK song titled "Wij zijn erbij," which was released for the European Championship in 2024 held in Germany.
The cast also included notable figures such as Dorian Bindels, who took on the role of Jesus, and Eva Simons, who portrayed Maria. While Dorian received much praise for his performance, Eva faced criticism from some viewers for her singing. Many noted that her first song was sung off-key, although her second song was perceived as an improvement. Comments on social media reflected a mix of appreciation and disappointment, with some viewers expressing high expectations for an experienced singer like Eva Simons.
Despite the mixed reviews for Eva, the overall reception of The Passion 2025 was positive. Viewers appreciated the modern interpretation of the classic biblical story, which narrates the events from the Last Supper to the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The performance was designed to resonate with contemporary audiences while maintaining the essence of the traditional narrative.
In addition to Esmee Joanna van Oostende, the cast of disciples included Maike Boerdam, Sem Ben Yakar, Wendy Ruijfrok, Sonia Eijken, Joshua Albano, Wolter Oosterhuis, and Jos de Groot. Each actor brought their unique flair to the production, contributing to the diverse representation of biblical figures.
The Passion is not just a performance but a significant cultural event that coincides with Witte Donderdag (Maundy Thursday), a day when Christians worldwide commemorate the Last Supper of Jesus. This connection to the religious observance adds depth to the performance, as it invites viewers to reflect on the themes of sacrifice, love, and redemption.
As the production unfolded, the audience was treated to a visually stunning display, with elaborate sets and costumes that brought the story to life. The use of modern music within the context of a historical narrative creates a bridge between the past and present, making the story more accessible to younger generations.
With its blend of music, drama, and contemporary relevance, The Passion 2025 continues to captivate audiences across the Netherlands. The event is produced by KRO-NCRV, which has been a staple in bringing this unique interpretation of the Easter story to television for the past fifteen years.
Looking ahead, the next installment of The Passion, titled The Passion Hemelvaart, is set to air on the same day, promising to extend the narrative further and explore the aftermath of the Easter story. This sequel aims to deepen the audience's understanding of the themes introduced in The Passion and how they resonate in today’s world.
In summary, The Passion 2025 from Terneuzen has proven to be a remarkable celebration of faith and artistry, showcasing the talents of both established and emerging artists. As viewers reflect on the performance, the blend of music and storytelling continues to spark discussions about the relevance of these age-old narratives in contemporary society.
