The audience of the family musical today consists of 6 and 7 year olds. The children come to watch a story full of song and dance about a princess who has to learn from her grandmother how to become a real queen.
People look breathlessly at the unruly Arabella and her strict but sweet grandmother, who explains to her, for example, how to cut ribbons: “These scissors are power. If you use her well, you make something more beautiful, if you use her poorly, you break something.”
“This is who we are”
But the story, based on the books by Mylo Freeman, is about so much more. It is not without reason that all the actors and the director and the choreographer are women of color. “It’s also about legacy,” says choreographer Purperhart, “what do you get from your ancestors and how do you pass that on to the next generation.”
Director Priscilla Vaudelle adds: “Our ancestors have always made music, sung songs, danced. With this musical we try to mix all styles, classical, R&B, hip hop, pop and thus show: this is who we are and this is how we get through difficult times in the world.”
This musical and the role of Princess Arabella are also important for leading actor Sarah-Jane Wijdenbosch; “I didn’t have any black role models when I was little and I do now. It’s super important to see someone who looks like you and who can be there. My little inner girl is very happy and honored.”
A beautiful black princess
Priscilla Vaudelle: “We have admired the blonde princesses for years and this is the time to say: there is also a beautiful black princess from Dutch soil who shares her joy with you.”
A musical with a message, but above all one with a lot of positive energy. The pleasure of the actors and the audience is clearly palpable. Ultimately, the message that the children take home is; find your flame, let it burn your way because you are good just the way you are.
Princess Arabella is touring the country. The performance can be seen until the end of November.