Theatre Bassline

Amsterdam, 12-09-1999. This evening was all about getting new and young audience into the theaters for the theatre plays. At the same time there was the ‘Het Theater Festival 1999’ award, a compilation by Paradiso, Cosmic and Hollandia.

It was a melting pot of artists displaying session together. Without forgetting their backgrounds. Howard Komproe was the host, it would not be Howard if he did not host with a comic twist in it. The blue print was clear, perform rhythmical texts on or with music.
‘Ongeblust Kalk’, (Fedja Huet), took the kick off, bit of vague but for the ones who ponder with a love for history.

Followed by DJ Othello (Cosmic) who indirectly reflected the story about OJ Simpson, all from a human being perspective. A breath taking act that put massive silence over the audience.

After two free interpretations of Shakespeare’s tragedy Hamlet the Amsterdam band ‘Juize’ had the job to transform everything into a big dance event. At least for one hour this band gave a swinging performance, one minute up welling rhymes and rhythms and the other minute deep lyrics.

Change of guard, Murt-The-Man-O-Script took it over from Howard and Basslove was ready to take off. KC The Funkaholic in the background made the whole picture complete. After half an hour ‘NuClarity’ together with some guest MC’s demanded the attention of the audience and managed to keep the attention. There was Gracia Gorre (Dignity) who made here entrance as a true soul diva with the 'Made In The Shade' soundtrack. Brainpower & DJ TLM took a turn, pumping their Dutch lyrics into the hall. Lasts but not least from Haarlem-Double-A: RollaRocka (Postmen) showed up. With his deep voice he did the finishing touch.

Txt: Marianna Düff
Photo: Greetje Kamps