Oost trekt de wereld in

Oost will tell

Amsterdam-Oost will come alive in the final performance Oost trekt de wereld in, a festive conclusion to the '24/'25 Leven in je buurt! program. On February 26, Wereldmuseum transforms into a stage where local residents, young and old, present a unique mix of music, dance, storytelling, and theater. It’s an afternoon filled with connection and creativity, celebrating the strength and diversity of the mixed community.

The Power of Connection

The Leven in je buurt! program is a cultural initiative that fosters connections between residents of Amsterdam-Oost. It offers them the opportunity to explore each other’s worlds through workshops and cultural gatherings. In the words of participant Rita Rustveld, a blind resident of the Transvaalbuurt: “From the very first moment, I felt welcome. The joyful atmosphere and moving together bring me so much happiness. It literally and figuratively puts a smile on my face.��� For Ismaïl Gadaan, who moved to Amsterdam from Syria two years ago, participation meant forming a new connection with himself and his surroundings: ���Through making music, I realized I have hidden strengths. It helps me grow and gives me hope.”

A Performance as a Journey of Discovery

Oost trekt de wereld in is not a traditional theatrical performance but an inspiring journey through cultures, where music, dance, and stories come together to create something magical. The participants bring the richness of their encounters and discoveries from the program to the stage. “We share our songs, dances, and stories. It’s a journey of discovery, a music and dance spectacle where Amsterdammers meet each other,” says Nagla Elsayed, an active volunteer from the neighborhood.