Veteran Journalist scores Musical Role After Unexpected Dismissal
In a surprising turn of events, veteran journalist Frits Barend, 77, has secured a role in the highly anticipated World War II musical, “40-45,” after being initially dismissed due to perceived acting deficiencies. This unexpected career pivot is a testament to the power of creative advocacy and a dash of comedic genius.
Barend, initially cast as a resistance fighter, was let go from the production. Though, the popular Dutch television show, “Even tot Hier,” stepped in to champion his cause. Hosts Jeroen Woe and Niels van der Laan, known for their comedic sketches, featured Barend in a series of recurring roles, showcasing his surprisingly versatile acting abilities.
The duo’s strategy was simple yet effective: demonstrate Barend’s comedic timing and range through a series of memorable characters. From a bicycle repairman to a mischievous burglar, Barend’s performances were anything but ordinary. He even took on the persona of popular Dutch singer Jan Smit in one memorable episode. this carefully curated showcase of talent ultimately convinced the musical’s producers to reconsider.
In a dramatic finale to their campaign, Woe and van der Laan presented a compilation of Barend’s “Even tot hier” performances to Gert Verhulst, the head of Studio 100, the production company behind “40-45.” their persuasive efforts paid off. Barend was given a one-off role in the musical, not as the resistance fighter he was originally slated for, but as a pilot rescued from a downed aircraft.
Barend himself expressed his gratitude for the unexpected chance. In an interview,he stated,”I was ‘very honored’ with the supporting roles I was allowed to play.”
This story resonates with the American spirit of perseverance and the unexpected paths to success. It’s a reminder that even seasoned professionals can find themselves in unexpected situations, and that with the right support and a little bit of humor, anything is possible. Barend’s journey from dismissed actor to musical performer is a heartwarming tale of second chances and the power of creative advocacy.
Frits Barend, a 77-year-old dutch journalist, was unexpectedly cast in the World War II musical “40-45” after being initially dismissed due too perceived acting deficiencies. [[1]] He was originally cast as a resistance fighter but was let go from the production.
The popular Dutch television show “Even tot Hier”, hosted by Jeroen Woe and Niels van der Laan, stepped in to help Barend. They featured him in a series of recurring roles, showcasing his surprisingly versatile acting abilities. [[1]] The hosts’ efforts ultimately convinced the musical’s producers to reconsider and give Barend a one-off role as a pilot rescued from a downed aircraft. [[1]]
