New Family Musical “Efteling vertelt… Joris en de Draak”
Photo: Courtesy of Efteling
(eap) Until 31 May 2026, the family musical “Efteling vertelt… Joris en de Draak” is touring more than 40 theatres in the Netherlands and Flanders. It is the first production in the “Efteling vertelt…” series (Eng.: Efteling tells…), produced by De Productieploeg under the direction of Rens Pieterse in cooperation with Efteling.
The 70-minute production is aimed at families with children aged six and up and features new songs by René Merkelbach, who composed the soundtrack for the wooden roller coaster of the same name at Efteling. In the musical, the “Van Kampen” family breaks down on their way to Efteling… What follows is a fantastical adventure in which they jointly bring the centuries-old story of Joris en de Draak to life.
Photo: Courtesy of Efteling
The musical celebrated its premiere on 14 December at the Theater aan de Parade in ’s-Hertogenbosch. According to director Mark Haayema, it was a complete success: “We have worked extremely hard over the past weeks, and then it is a joy to see everything come together at the premiere. I am very proud that the audience reacted exactly as we had hoped. They sit absolutely still on the edge of their seats, laugh at the funny moments, clap enthusiastically along to the cheerful songs, and move closer together when things get exciting. We are very much looking forward to touring the Netherlands and Flanders in the coming months.”
In line with the musical, Efteling has also expanded its accommodation portfolio. A new Joris en de Draak-themed suite recently opened at the Efteling Wonder Hotel. Designed for up to five guests, the suite is thematically aimed at “brave dragon warriors”. The offer is complemented by a likewise new, colourful “Max & Moritz” suite. ■
