The theme of this year's Brabantsedag is "Closer to Brabant." Poetry and the "typical Brabant feeling" take center stage. Some float-building groups have decided that Brabant music belongs to this theme. And what music! The sounds of artists like Gerard van Maasakkers, Bjorn van der Doelen—both Brabantsedag ambassadors—and Guus Meeuwis will bring the audience even closer to Brabant during the theater parade on August 25th.
Gerard van Maasakkers
Vriendenkring Snoeyen felt they couldn't ignore Gerard van Maasakkers' "Hier heur ik thuis." "During the parade, all generations on and around our float, from young to old, will sing along to this beautiful song. Goosebumps guaranteed," predicts Patricia Tiemessen from Vriendenkring Snoeyen.
De Oude Ambachten also chose a song by Gerard van Maasakkers: "Ik neem jou mee." It's about cherished memories that you carry with you forever. "Our float is also about saying goodbye and the memories you have of someone," says Janet Welten of De Oude Ambachten. "Of course, we contacted Gerard, and he finds it very special that we are using this song."
Björn van der Doelen
Björn van der Doelen will be heard from the float of Vriendenkring Van Gaal. They asked him to re-record and sing his "Zeven Zonden." Parts of the original lyrics were replaced by the historical poem on which the group's float design is based. Dirk van Gaal says, "The rhythmic sounds of this song, combined with Björn's recognizable voice, fit perfectly with our theme 'The Reclamation.' It's become an awesome track; we're very happy he wanted to collaborate!"
Guus Meeuwis
The "unofficial Brabant anthem" by Guus Meeuwis also couldn't be left out. Veurop LPG, the group that opens the parade outside the competition, will make sure the audience sings along loudly: "And then I think of Brabant..."
During the parade, many other Brabant songs will be heard, including those by the late Ad de Laat. So come enjoy enchanting music, captivating theater, sublime float designs, and above all, a whole lot of Brabant hospitality. See you on Sunday, August 25th, during the biggest theater parade of the year: Brabantsedag Heeze!
