Initiators
Opera op de Parade is an initiative of Opera Zuid, Philzuid, and Theater aan de Parade.
Opera South
Opera Zuid offers, through the universal character of its themes and the incomparable emotional directness and impact of its pure live experience, a unique experience that will become increasingly important in the 21st century. Opera Zuid takes you to a world where time can stand still and the virtual is breathtakingly real.
Opera Zuid brings opera closer: opera that you feel, that touches, that amazes, and that transports, drawing from the inexhaustible power of human imagination. With our productions, we aim to contribute to the diary of the world. Tradition and innovation go hand in hand; great masterpieces from the past strike at the heart of our here and now. We connect new creations with tradition and current events. We believe that the total experience opera offers is more relevant than ever and can change your life. Driven by this conviction, we tour with opera productions that we wish to share with as large and diverse an audience as possible.
Waut Koeken, Intendant of Opera Zuid, on Opera op de Parade: “For me, Opera op de Parade is the annual opera event where audience reach, participation, and top artistic quality come together. The relaxed and festive experience of opera under the open sky consistently creates a unique and unforgettable experience.”
Philzuid
Philzuid touches people with classical music. The ensemble is known as the professional symphony orchestra of the Southern Netherlands and seeks to connect with all residents of North Brabant, Limburg, and Zeeland. Philharmonie Zuidnederland achieves this through a rich array of activities. From large symphonic concerts featuring beloved repertoire pieces in concert halls to new concert formats in unexpected locations. From Carnival concerts to film projects. And from centuries-old masterpieces to exciting world premieres, business events, and educational projects.
Philzuid is an orchestra of and for everyone: a vibrant ensemble that always and everywhere delivers custom-made performances at the highest level with passionate musicians and staff members. Under the leadership of Intendant Stefan Rosu, Philzuid is an orchestra that continuously pushes its boundaries.
Stefan Rosu, Intendant and Director of Philzuid, on Opera op de Parade: “As a symphony orchestra, Philzuid speaks through music. This music has the magical power to connect musicians and audience with deep feelings and grand thoughts. That is music to cherish and bring to life, and in this way, Philzuid creates the most beautiful experiences. For music can touch us in our deepest being and connect us with one another. That connecting power of music can be found in all activities. For years, Opera op de Parade has been among the top 5 events that the people of Den Bosch are very proud of. We have the ambition to grow this into an event of national significance.”
Theater aan de Parade
In the spring of 2025, the doors of the new Theater aan de Parade opened. A beautiful place of and for the city with an open atmosphere, a Theater Café where people walk in and out all day long, a Garden Room with a view of the Bossche Broek, and various halls and stages in different locations in the foyer. A new theater with a fresh perspective on programming, offering something for everyone in the region, and an organization that makes it possible.
The theater programs approximately 250 performances annually for young and old. From music to musicals, from dance to drama, and from opera to spoken word . In addition, it distinguishes itself through special (social) projects, festivals, and collaborations.
Rob Almering, Director of Theater aan de Parade, on Opera op de Parade: “Opera is originally a folk festival. With Opera op de Parade, we are bringing this celebration of music, song, and imagination back to the city in its entirety.”
