An Ode to Rotterdam (and its People)

An Ode to Rotterdam (and its People)

December is not only a month of lights and festive cheer, but also a time for reflection. During the Rotterdam Warm Winter Weeks, in the days leading up to Christmas, we take a moment to honour remarkable Rotterdammers who are no longer with us but who remain forever in our hearts – among them Gerard Cox and Joke Bruijs.

On 23 December, the Koopgoot transforms into a musical tribute. Well-known Rotterdam songs fill the passageway as a salute to Joke and Gerard, to our city, and to icons who thankfully are still with us, such as Lee Towers.

Sjoerd Pleijsier will also treat the audience to a dose of pure nostalgia from the 3.5-metre-high advent cube. Expect classics such as Schuit van Blonde Arie (an ode to Gerard Cox & Joke Bruijs), My Way (for Lee Towers) and of course Rotterdam wordt wakker, placing the city itself in the spotlight.

Finally, Glenda Peters takes the stage that afternoon. With her warm voice, she brings both soulful songs and personal tributes, including Rotterdam and Vlinders, which she dedicates to her mother, who passed away last year.

The performances take place on 23 December from 15:00 to 15:45 in the Koopgoot. Admission is free.