Remembrance Keti Koti (lunch + concert)

On the 1st of July, the Netherlands commemorates and celebrates the abolition of slavery in Suriname and the Antilles (Keti Koti and Dia di Abolishon). This afternoon, we gather to reflect on our shared history and present, and look ahead to the future, all while enjoying a meal and listening. Countertenor Arturo den Hartog will perform a recital featuring songs from the Surinamese classical repertoire, Surinamese traditionals, and Adès’s colorful arrangements of four songs by Purcell. Beforehand, a Heri Heri lunch will be served. This is a one-pot dish prepared with ingredients that were available to enslaved people on the plantations.

In 2021, countertenor Arturo den Hartog won the audience award of the Princess Christina Concours. He performed at the O. Festival in 2022, 2023 and 2024. He is increasingly developing as a creator, while advocating for the works of Black composers. Pianist Ernst Munneke has been part of the music staff of Dutch National Opera since 2009 and is also active as a song accompanist and chamber musician both in the Netherlands and internationally.

The Heri Heri meal consists of cooked sweet potato, cassava, yellow and green bananas, salted fish (cod), an egg, and garnishing.

A production of Muziekgebouw Production House in collaboration with Theater voor Keti Koti and Free Heri Heri for All