The messenger is a musical theatre spectacle about the 1629 siege of ‘s-Hertogenbosch in 25 episodes (until September 2029). It is performed at Maurick Castle itself, where strategy and execution of the siege actually took shape. The events leading to the fall of the city are seen through the eyes of a messenger, an objective outsider, who enters all walks of life, from nobleman to bishop, from baker to peasant, to friend and foe, who keeps his eyes and ears wide open and has his own opinions about them. In this first episode, actor Victor Lange, interspersed with music by musicians from Holland Baroque, takes us back to January 1629, when the messenger makes his appearance at the Heym family with a secret assignment from his lord: Prince Frederick Henry of Orange.
Maurick Castle is a fascinating place. Upon visiting, you are struck by its authentic atmosphere, architecture, and location amid the beautiful estate. You can almost touch the history that has taken place here for centuries. The area is part of the beautiful stream valley landscape so characteristic of this region. Castle and estate are isolated behind the A2 motorway and have lost their significance partly because of this. The Dichtbij Maurick initiative will revive that significance, enrich it and connect it to the future to give visitors a sense of ‘historical sensation’.
Musical direction
Judith and Tineke Steenbrink
Arrangements by Judith and Tineke Steenbrink