Gelukkig zijn musical ends with release of classic cover version
The theatre group behind the popular tour of Gelukkig zijn, a musical starring people who speak Dutch as a second language, is releasing a single of the Noordkaap classic “Ik hou van u”
Unexpected success
The musical’s popularity surprised even the company. “We had planned 20 shows originally, but because of the enormous success, we had to increase it to 60,” said artistic director Peter Schoenaerts. All of Fast Forward’s productions star asylum-seekers, French-speaking Belgians and anyone else who speaks Dutch as a second language.
Fast Forward productions are often performed for Dutch classes and community centres around the country, but Gelukkig zijn sold out larger venues, such as Antwerp’s Arenbergschouwburg, which is where “Ik hou van u” was recorded live.
The company had already released a CD of three songs from Gelukkig zijn. The last two performances take place next month in Deurne and Vilvoorde, and “Ik hou van u” is available on iTunes and other music download sites.
About the author
Lisa Bradshaw is the editor-in-chief of Flanders Today. She worked as an editor and journalist in her homeland, the United States, before moving to the awesome city of Ghent in 2004. If she’s not in the office, she’s probably at a film festival.
