Poetry is my breath

This performance - the last made by Felix Strategier (Flint) until he passed away in 2020 and an ode to poet, writer and columnist Remco Campert - had three try-outs at the time, never reaching a premiere. The last try-out was attended by Campert: 'the Last Fifer' and 'the Eternal Circus Animal'. They shared poetry that night, and afterwards shared a cigarette in front of the doors of the Roode Bioscoop. In 2022, Remco also died.

In 2023, 'Poetry is my Breath' still got the premiere it deserved. In this moving and intense performance, his work is interpreted not only by his granddaughter Frederique van Rijn, but also by the fantastic actor and musician Jeroen Kramer. Pianist Frank van Bommel and trumpeter Mark Nieuwenhuis lay a fine carpet of notes under the words of the poet who was 'never quite there'. The whole event is framed by the video art of Martijn Grootendorst.

Experience how tender love poems are interwoven with sharp commentary on human inadequacy, musings on poetry, humorous storytelling and always, in the distance, the silent presence of death.

A tribute to Remco Campert given a fresh and intense interpretation by his granddaughter and a new musical ensemble. This is not just another performance; it is a journey through the timeless beauty of Campert's work, with moments of humour, reflection and above all, emotion.

And all to be seen and heard in the Church of Beets!

Frederique van Rijn & Jeroen Kramer (recitation/vocals)
Mark Nieuwenhuis (trumpet/electronics)
Frank van Bommel (piano/vibraphone)
Martijn Grootendorst (video art)