Cultural updates: Eric Coolen mural in Heemstede and Opera Vlaanderen season opening

In Heemstede, residents of the Waterhof complex have transformed a previously bare wall into a piece of art. The mural features a drawing by Eric Coolen, who is known for capturing scenes of the Heemstede harbor. The unveiling took place on September 11, 2026, with Coolen explaining his ‘clear line’ technique to the residents.

In Belgium, Opera Vlaanderen marked a new era under the direction of Eric de Meester and Silvere van den Broeck. The season opened with Verdi’s Otello in Antwerp and Aida in Ghent. The production featured a sober, budget-conscious staging by Eddy Verbruggen and musical direction by Frits Celis. While soloist Amedo Zambon received praise for his performance as Otello, other performances received mixed reviews.