One of the Netherlands’ oldest active theater communities is gearing up for a historic new chapter, as its leadership has unveiled an ambitious long-term masterplan to secure the organization’s future for decades to come, timed to the 189th anniversary of Theatergenootschap Thalia’s founding.
Founded on April 27, 1837, the beloved cultural institution will mark its 190th anniversary in 2027, and preparations for that milestone have already kicked into high gear. During a special general members’ assembly held Monday at the Thalia Building’s foyer, the board led by chair Sherida Mormon presented the far-reaching revitalization strategy that looks beyond the upcoming anniversary all the way to the society’s bicentennial in 2037 and beyond. The event also included a festive celebration, where 93-year-old honorary president Frank Favery — the society’s oldest active member — cut the official anniversary cake, alongside the organization’s oldest overall member, 100-year-old Meli Leeerdam. Attendees raised a toast to the historic group’s legacy and coming future.
In a major milestone for the society, organizers confirmed this week that Thalia has now been officially re-registered with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kamer van Koophandel en Fabrieken, KKF), bringing the organization into full compliance with modern Dutch regulatory requirements. Mormon noted that the registration process required significant effort to verify the society’s long continuous existence, as Thalia had not maintained continuous formal registration with governing authorities since 1974, when it marked its 137th year.
Mormon emphasized that the masterplan is designed not just to celebrate the 190th anniversary, but to build a sustainable foundation for the organization’s next century of operations. “This isn’t just about what we need to organize next year. We’re restructuring how we operate as an organization, to make sure Thalia remains a vital community institution for generations to come,” she explained.
The multi-faceted strategy outlines four core priority areas for the coming years. First, the plan allocates resources for critical renovations, upgrades and ongoing maintenance of the historic Thalia Building, preserving the iconic space while modernizing it for contemporary audiences. Second, the society will develop a new sustainable revenue model focused on expanding its appeal to local audiences and cultural tourists alike. Third, Thalia will position itself as a leading regional center for performing arts talent development, with a particular focus on nurturing young creators and performers. Finally, the organization will prioritize expanding its member base and forging new collaborative partnerships with other cultural and community groups across the region.
Mormon stressed that the revitalization effort is open to all community members, regardless of experience or formal talent. “You don’t need any special performing arts skills to join Thalia. All you need is passion and a desire to build something fun together,” she said. “Every person who wants to contribute is welcome, because this project takes a whole community to bring it to life.”