New Efteling Family Musical "Joris and the Dragon" Premieres

On Sunday, December 14, the new family musical “Efteling Tells… Joris and the Dragon” celebrated its festive premiere at Theater aan de Parade in ’s-Hertogenbosch. The production is recommended for brave audiences aged six and older and is currently playing in more than 42 theaters across the Netherlands and Flanders. It will continue touring through May 31, 2026.

The story centers on the Van Kampen family, who suffer a car breakdown on their way to Efteling. With no phone signal and no help in sight, they pass the time by bringing the centuries-old legend of Joris and the dragon to life together. Marijn Brouwers, Marike Folles, Christiaan Koetsier, and Thijmen Staps portray the Van Kampen family, while Fleur Renes plays the neighbor’s girl. The actors also take on additional roles, including Joris, Princess Rosalie, three sheep, and a king. The production is directed by Mark Haayema, a children’s book author, theater maker, and puppeteer.

Mark Haayema expressed delight after the premiere: “We worked hard over the past few weeks, and it’s a celebration when everything comes together on opening night. I’m so proud that the audience responded exactly as we hoped. They sit quietly on the edge of their seats, laugh when it’s funny, clap enthusiastically along with cheerful songs, and cuddle up when the tension rises. We’re hugely looking forward to touring the Netherlands and Flanders in the coming months.”

“Efteling Tells… Joris and the Dragon” is the first production in a new series that continues the tradition of Efteling fairy-tale musicals in a bolder, more adventurous form. The legend of Joris and the dragon is best known through the park’s wooden roller coaster of the same name, but the attraction draws from the legend’s own exciting story. The musical follows a king who has long tried to free his kingdom from a terrorizing dragon. When his daughter, Princess Rosalie, is chosen as a sacrifice, he sees no escape. Joris then steps forward and, together with Rosalie, resolves to confront the dragon. The show blends humor, music, and adventure into a thrilling experience for the entire family.

The 70-minute production features new songs by René Merkelbach. The full performance schedule is available at www.efteling.com/musicaljorisendedraak.

An experienced team stands behind the production. The script was written by Allard Blom; choreography and assistant direction were handled by Max Hameeteman; set design was created by Joris van Veldhoven; and costumes were designed by Carla de Kroon. Lighting design was by Wim Dresens, with technical execution by Events Light (Luuk Bruininks and Jeroen Frijters). The creative team also includes Mark van Haasteren as concept specialist for live entertainment, in collaboration with Veronique Claes, and Robert-Jaap Jansen as all-around concept specialist. The musical is produced by De Productieploeg, led by Rens Pieterse, in cooperation with Efteling.