The Passion, a musical representation of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, will be broadcast live from Terneuzen on NPO 1 on the evening of Thursday, April 17, 2025. This year's production features notable performances from Dorian Bindels as Jesus and Eva Simons as Mary, alongside Défano Holwijn and Vajèn van den Bosch in key roles.
For the first time, this grand Dutch spectacle is being staged in Zeeland, and the event has garnered attention not only for its star-studded cast but also for its significant cultural impact. Hugo de Jonge, the acting King's Commissioner in Zeeland, expressed his excitement about hosting The Passion in his province, stating, "I find it very beautiful that Zeeland is the backdrop for The Passion tonight and that so many people are captivated by that story from 2000 years ago, of faith, hope, love, suffering, and resurrection."
This year's theme, 'Ik ben bij je' (I am with you), resonates deeply, particularly in a time when community spirit is often lacking. De Jonge remarked, "For people with a Christian background, these are very familiar words. But I think that – especially in this time where we indeed have a lack of community feeling – it is something we should say to each other more often. That's why I find it a very beautiful message."
Organizing The Passion comes at a cost of 300,000 euros, but De Jonge sees this as an opportunity to showcase not just the performance but also the beauty of Zeeland. He noted, "I think Zeeuws-Vlaanderen has remained a hidden secret for too many people. This provides the opportunity to also interest people in this area. Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is of course incredibly Zeeuws, but Terneuzen as a city – did you know that last year the largest lock in the world was opened there? – is also Zeeuws-Vlaanderen."
Interestingly, De Jonge was approached to take on a role in The Passion. He revealed, "I would have loved to say yes, but my spokesperson said: 'Don't do it. You are a provincial administrator or you are an actor.' I think it was for the role of a disciple." This humorous anecdote highlights the delicate balance between his political responsibilities and personal ambitions.
As the clock approached 20:30, anticipation grew for the start of the musical spectacle. The event promises to be a vibrant evening, featuring not just the main cast but also special appearances that fans might find surprising. Among these is the duo Mike and Monique from the reality series Winter vol liefde, who will appear as Petrus-herkenners (Peter recognizers). Their participation adds a unique twist to the evening, drawing in fans of the show.
Moreover, Michella Kox, known for her reality television presence, will portray Barabbas, a character traditionally depicted as a murderer released in place of Jesus. Kox humorously remarked during a 3FM interview, "I see myself more as the holy virgin Mary, but they didn't offer me that role. I have no lines, and I find that a pity. Maybe I'll create my own lines. I wanted to light a cigarette first, but that’s too far." Her playful spirit and willingness to improvise promise to keep viewers engaged.
In addition to the entertainment factor, The Passion serves as a cultural touchstone, inviting reflections on themes of sacrifice and redemption that resonate across generations. The production's ability to draw in diverse audiences, from religious communities to fans of reality television, underscores its relevance in contemporary society.
As the event unfolds, it is expected to attract significant viewership, not just for its artistic merit but also for its cultural implications. De Jonge’s enthusiasm for the event reflects a broader sentiment in Zeeland, where local pride and community engagement are being revitalized through such initiatives.
In a separate segment during his appearance on Goedemorgen Nederland, De Jonge was also questioned about his previous role as Minister of Housing, which has drawn criticism due to its controversial rental laws. While his focus during the interview was primarily on The Passion, the juxtaposition of his political past with his current cultural role paints a complex picture of a public figure navigating multiple facets of his career.
As viewers tune in tonight, they will not only witness a retelling of a timeless story but also engage with a community coming together to celebrate its heritage and shared values. The Passion is more than just a performance; it is a celebration of faith, resilience, and the power of storytelling that transcends time and place.
As the curtain rises on this year's rendition of The Passion, audiences are reminded of the enduring relevance of its themes, particularly in a world that often seems divided. In a time where messages of hope and togetherness are crucial, the production aims to resonate with viewers on both a personal and communal level.
With its blend of traditional narrative and contemporary flair, The Passion promises to be a memorable event that highlights the rich cultural tapestry of Zeeland while inviting reflection on deeper themes of human experience.
As the clock strikes 20:30, the stage is set, and the audience awaits the unfolding of a story that has captivated hearts for centuries. With a talented cast, a meaningful theme, and a picturesque setting, The Passion in Terneuzen is poised to leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.
