Jongensuren - Koen Verheijden

Jongensuren - A Theatrical Ode to Andreas Burnier

Step into the world of Dutch sixties writer Andreas Burnier, a groundbreaking voice on identity and sexuality whose work, though bold and hyper-relevant, has often been overlooked. Jongensuren—a theatrical adaptation inspired by Burnier’s novels Een Tevreden Lach and Het Jongensuur—captures the post-war moral dualities and the thirst for freedom felt by a young Jewish lesbian in a society that shuns “deviations.”

In Burnier’s words:"Everything depends on this test. If it works, I can move on, start a new life: drink, fight, make love, go to sea, work in harbors, roam the docks at night, brawl, drive, curse, bond with men, flirt with women, become a great doctor—abroad, of course. To live every damn part of life as it drips down my chin like a juicy fruit."

This adaptation, written by Koen Verheijden, brings together four actresses who embody Burnier and the characters surrounding her. Through their performances, they explore Burnier’s layered perspectives in a form that feels both associative and almost documentary-like. It’s a theatrical tribute that captures her humor and bold spirit, making for a nuanced and occasionally sharp look at her life and times.

DetailsJongensuren is a powerful tribute to one of the Netherlands’ most daring authors, offering an intimate and multifaceted view of Burnier’s world.

Show is in Dutch.

Check ticketing for dates and locations.