Puppet Show on Dam Square: Street Theatre for Young and Old
Anyone strolling through Amsterdam’s city centre on a Sunday might just stumble upon a centuries-old tradition. During the summer months, a traditional puppet show stands in front of the Royal Palace on Dam Square. Jan Klaassen and his wife Katrijn, the Dutch Punch and Judy, are the regular players. There are four performances every afternoon. And the best part? It will not cost you a penny because the performance is free. This is the perfect Sunday afternoon outing for families, but just as much fun for anyone who wants to relive their childhood.
A Centuries-old Tradition in the Heart of Amsterdam
The Punch and Judy show on Dam Square is a nostalgic piece of Amsterdam and has been declared a cultural heritage. It all began in the 19th century, when Antoon A. van Hemert received the first official permit to perform in the city in 1886. Together with his brother-in-law, Janus Cabalt, he built a tradition that would continue for generations.
The Cabalt family guaranteed the performances for decades. The classic adventures of Punch and Judy formed the main theme, but they added new adventures and stories.
In the 1950s, there were performances with marionettes, very different from the hand puppet shows. The marionette play was accompanied by music by well-known Dutch artists of the time, such as Wim Sonneveld and Dorus Manders.
A little later, new heroes and adventures emerged: Jantje de Kraker (Little Jack the Squatter) and Karagöz, Jan Klaassen’s Turkish cousin. Yet, the core always remained the same: lots of jokes, a bit of suspense, and audience interaction.
What makes the puppet show so special?
The charm of the puppet show lies in its simplicity and the audience’s involvement.
* Lots of action and slapstick: Jan Klaassen often has to fight, escape, or perform cunning tricks.
* Interaction with the children: Without the audience’s help, the story usually doesn’t end well. The children shout, laugh, scream, and help Jan Klaassen out of trouble.
* For all ages: Little ones enjoy the jokes and the excitement, adults the tradition and nostalgia.
Back on Dam Square
The resident puppeteer had to stop performing in 2008 due to health reasons. Not many people are professional puppeteers, so the show didn’t return until 2012, now under the new name Theatro Pantini. The familiar entertainment was back on Dam Square.
Practical Information
* When? Every Sunday from May to October
* Times: 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:00 PM
* Where? In front of the Royal Palace on Dam Square, Amsterdam
* Price: Free
* Duration: Approximately 20-25 minutes per performance
