Tom Jansen

🌕✨ Time to shine a light on a truly special student.

Ten years ago, fresh out of music theatre school, I met @empdamen . She had just performed somewhere, felt the spark, and decided to go all in. We made a plan, worked on her voice, monologues, and everything she’d need to turn this dream into a career.

From day one, her drive was unstoppable. Talent is common, but her determination made the difference. Year after year, setback after setback, she kept pushing. When one door closed, she found another and opened it herself.

Yesterday was a milestone: I witnessed the premiere of Luna, an epic open-air spectacle in the stone quarry of Winterswijk. Els created the concept, wrote the script, and directed the entire production. It was sharp, moving, funny, intelligent: unmistakably her.

With a cast of many (including the incredible @suzanseegers and @aniekvenhoeven ), she lit up the stage and the sky.

Els, I’m endlessly proud of you. It’s an honor to have played even a small part in your journey. 🚀💫