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Irish Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Times
Regaled by admirers, reviled by critics: A glimpse inside the André Rieu musical extravaganza
As the evening sun dips behind Maastricht's medieval spires, this summer evening ignites. Once the signature Entry of the Gladiators begins, all eyes turn towards André Rieu and his troupe of Disney princesses at the top of Vrijthof Square. This annual extravaganza, set against the towering Romanesque Basilica of St Sevatius and Gothic St John's that dominate the square, draws thousands of devoted fans from across the globe. But who is this mulleted maestro regaled by admirers and reviled by critics? Rieu was born and raised in Maastricht, his father also a renowned conductor. Rieu jnr was immersed in the world of classical music from his early years; opera houses became his playgrounds and by age five, he could already play the violin. Yet even then, he was unimpressed by the ambience of such rarified cultural shrines. READ MORE 'I remember loving the music,' he recalls. But the atmosphere was so 'snobbish and deathly boring'. And so, alongside his Johann Strauss Orchestra, he has taken a different and at times controversial approach to orchestration, arrangements and staging of classical standards. For those who cannot grasp the idea of symphonic music as fun, you've yet to witness a Maastricht Rieu special: the occasion – and it sure is that – unfolds in ever more elaborate episodes. One moment, you're seduced by 17-year-old Emma Kok's compelling rendition of Voilà and the next, swept along with what seems like an army of octogenarians tearing into the Macarena – led by none other than Los del Rio themselves. Among this lively Macarena mob is Majella from Trim, Co Meath. She is far from a Rieu rookie and knows exactly what to expect; this year, she decided to drag along her husband and two teenage children for the Maastricht pilgrimage. While sceptical at first, by the night's end, they were won over, admitting it was far from their expectation of that musical genre. [ André Rieu lobbied Ursula von der Leyen for €15m to stage world tour Opens in new window ] In part, their surprise could likely be chalked up to this year's special addition: the striptease skit featuring a blacksmith, briefly stealing the limelight from Rieu. The razzmatazz makes Rieu's performances feel a world away from the classical canon, a showbiz approach that has no shortage of critics who remain unimpressed. He has been branded the king of smaltz and McDonald's of Mozart for a presentation that has succeeded in broadening an audience by way of contentious packaging. But his interpretation of that prolific genius has produced yet another following – one that critic Karen Brooks claims the tradition has long sought to exclude. Accusations of crass commercialism do not faze Rieu or his wedded waltzers, who enjoy the adoration of millions worldwide. They will not claim to be custodians of the classical canon, but they know what they like. And what this nightly crowd in Maastricht want is the local boy made good, who lives locally in his 16th century Renaissance castle. One such devoted admirer is Cindy from Tennessee, who is attending her 24th Rieu concert. Despite claiming to be the least 'groupie' person on the planet, she admits to a soft spot for Rieu. . This year she's making the long trip alone as her husband is 'Rieued out'. And determined to make her journey worthwhile, she is spending the entire month in Maastricht to attend all 12 nights of the July concerts. Another couple, Judie and Jeff from Adelaide, are excited to see Rieu perform in his home town. They attended his 2008 Australian tour, which featured an ice rink and a horse-drawn golden carriage, but admit it falls short of the Maastricht magic. For 20 years, Rieu's July concerts have showcased a musical magnetism that never fails to thrill: whether you're a rookie or sceptic, denying his appeal fails to take account of that talent, charm and savvy commercial acumen. Purists will take a dim view, but while they cling to tradition, the magic is in celebration – fun, fiery and unmistakably alive. Is it an occasion of cultural piety? Perhaps not, but it certainly makes for one hell of a night.
Forbes
18-07-2025
- Forbes
3 Epic Hotels In The Netherlands For 2025
Château St. Gerlach Oostwegel Collection T he Netherlands is a country of captivating contrasts—where endless tulip fields ripple in the breeze, centuries-old windmills turn lazily against the horizon, and sleek modern cities loom like gentle giants beside medieval town centers. Its iconic capital, Amsterdam , is a city shaped by water—with a UNESCO-listed canal belt lined with whimsical gingerbread gables, arched stone bridges, and charming floating houseboats (best admired from a candlelit cruise). Art lovers flock to the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum, while the Anne Frank House offers a deeply poignant window into the harrowing trauma of the holocaust. But the Netherlands is far more than just Amsterdam—venture a little further south and you'll uncover Maastricht —a city nestled near the Belgian and German borders, at a rich cultural crossroads of Roman ruins, Gothic churches, and candlelit squares like the Vrijthof. Explore the Maastricht Underground, a mysterious labyrinth of caves and tunnels, or browse books beneath soaring vaulted ceilings at Boekhandel Dominicanen , a bookstore housed in a 700-year-old church. So, whether you're surfing through indie boutiques in Amsterdam's artsy Jordaan district or sipping wine beneath the majestic spires of Maastricht's St. Servatius —here are our handpicked pillow stops along the way. Pillows Maurits at the Park Pillows Hotels Nestled within a former university dissection lab on the edge of Amsterdam's leafy Oosterpark, dating back to 1908, Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits At The Park is an elegant boutique hotel where chic flair meets industrial minimalism—think glazed brick corridors and curated Dutch art, including works by Raphaël Hermans and even a discreet Picasso in its Fitz's Bar . Its crown jewel? The Pillows Grand Suite . Spanning over 700 square feet, this light-drenched cavern houses a signature Pillows king-sized bed, a sweeping kitchenette, and a private lounge area overlooking the park; adorned with a baby grand. Its marble-clad ensuite, however, is a spa-like retreat, with a deep soaking tub, double rainfall shower, and soft fluffy robes to wrap yourself up in. You'll also receive little perks like valet parking and complimentary access to its private sauna. Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Once settled, descend to VanOost Restaurant , cocooned in the former anatomy hall, anchored by an open kitchen helmed by rising-star chef F loris van Straalen . Expect a seasonal tasting menu with standout dishes like Indonesian Langoustine and Anjou Pigeon Rossini —served under trusses that once held cadavers. Don't skip the cheese trolley or the wine pairing, sourced from European vineyards like Zind-Humbrecht and Van Volxem ( Pillows Grand Suite from $1,740 per night). 2. Kruisherenhotel Maastricht Location: Maastricht Kruisherensuite Oostwegel Collection / Laura Knipsael Photography Once a 15th-century Gothic church and Kruisheren monastery of the 'Crutched Friars,' Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is an uber-stylish bolthole, nestled in the heart of Maastricht's historic city center. Up until 1797, it was the home of monks, before serving as military barracks during the French Revolution—and later as the site of the National Agricultural Research Station . Today, as a proud member of Design Hotels, a collection of over 300 independent hotels rooted in design, locality, and culture—its artistic flair is present throughout—think quirky pop art, stained glass windows, original frescoes and stone masonry, and fine furnishings by Philippe Starck and Le Corbusier. Read More: Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn Its Kruisherensuite , however, is chic and minimalistic—sitting in the former monastery—set across 700 square feet, boasting beautiful stained glass windows, Cardinal tones, an Auping custom-made bed, and a lavish ensuite dressed with a whirlpool and double rainfall shower. Once you're settled into the suite life , saunter down to its French-inspired 'court of fine dining'—Spencer's. With grand original frescoes to gaze upon, you'll feast on a 5-course Chef's Menu , with dishes like fine cured salmon, shellfish from the North Sea, and slow-cooked veal chuck—complete with fluffy yogurt mousse and a gorgeous cheese board. Be sure to opt for its 4-course wine pairing too ( Kruisherensuite from $490 per night). 3. Château St. Gerlach Location: Valkenburg Château St. Gerlach Oostwegel Collection Set within the rolling hills of Geul Valley, Château St. Gerlach is a storybook estate where baroque grandeur meets pastoral serenity. Once a 12th-century monastery, this Relais & Châteaux jewel has been exquisitely restored into a sumptuous countryside retreat—surrounded by lush vineyards, aromatic herb gardens, blooming rose beds, and a charming church adorned with 18th-century frescoes—where sculptures grace the manicured gardens and wild horses roam the nearby Ingendael nature reserve. Read More: Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Inside, you'll find interiors blending classic elegance with contemporary comfort—think vaulted ceilings, antique heirlooms, and 114 individually styled suites and apartments—housed in former grain lofts and farmsteads. Beneath the Château's ancient stone arches lies Spa & Wellness St. Gerlach —a Roman-inspired sanctuary housing a serene 14-metre indoor pool, a traditional Turkish hammam, and soothing sauna, with treatments ranging from Sothys facials to aromatherapy massages. Gastronomy is a centerpiece too: at Les Salons , in the former living quarters of the last aristocratic resident, Baron de Selys de Fanson , estate-sourced dishes are served beneath gilded ceilings and glittering crystal chandeliers—like sea bass filet, Dutch Yellowtail Kingfish, wild garlic panna cotta, and Limburg mozzarella flan. Burgemeester Quicx , however, offers a more relaxed affair, serving artisanal coffee and light bites—think farmer's cheese and Limburgse vlaai —in a chic farmhouse setting. Read More: Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? By Lewis Nunn Forbes An Insider's Guide To The Ned, London By Lewis Nunn Forbes An Insider's Guide To Carden Park Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa By Lewis Nunn
LeMonde
01-07-2025
- Business
- LeMonde
While France spends, Germany invests
Germany is finally taking on debt. The coalition government of the Christian Democrats and Social Democrats announced on Tuesday, June 24, a fiscal trajectory that breaks with the budgetary orthodoxy that had previously prevailed. While France, mired in deficits, is painfully searching for €40 billion in savings for 2026, Germany is opening the floodgates of debt, announcing plans to raise nearly €850 billion by 2029 to fund a dramatic increase in spending. Despite appearances, Europe's largest economy is not resigning itself to fiscal laxity. Shaken by the challenges to its economic model, Germany is looking to capitalize on its decades of fiscal discipline to relaunch its economy with a wave of investment not seen since World War II. Around €120 billion will be injected into the economy each year through 2029. While Germany is borrowing to invest, France continues to borrow mainly to fund its operating expenses. In the first quarter, French public debt increased by another €40.5 billion. As Berlin decides to use the margins for maneuver it has patiently accumulated since the 2000s, Paris is struggling to find any, hampered by a parliament without a majority and a lack of reformist will. Two starting lines This latest version of the fable of the Grasshopper and the Ant could have serious macroeconomic consequences. Because France did not address its imbalances in time, it now faces the threat of a dramatic divergence from Germany. Although the two countries are moving closer in terms of indebtedness, the fact that they are not starting from the same baseline makes all the difference. In 2024, Berlin was still in compliance with the European Stability Pact, with a public deficit below 3% of gross domestic product (GDP) and debt only slightly above the Maastricht criteria. This now gives Germany the means to pursue ambitions that are no longer within France's reach. Even if this massive investment plan across the Rhine deviates from European rules, Germany will remain in a far better position than France. In 2027, its deficit could exceed 4%. There is no indication that France will be able to bring its own deficit down to that level by then. As for France's debt burden, by 2029 it will be twice that of Germany. These are unproductive sums, which will not be available to support the environmental transition, strengthen France's defense or invest in innovation. Germany will dramatically increase its investments in roads, railways, housing, hospitals, digitalization of the administration, energy, and will raise its military spending to 5% of GDP – six years ahead of schedule compared to the timeline agreed by the members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) at the June 25 summit in The Hague. The boost to growth and employment in Germany will be on a scale unmatched by the situation in France. The Schadenfreude – a sense of malicious joy – that some on this side of the Rhine may have felt, when watching the German model fall from its pedestal, may be short-lived. Suffocated by its debt, France would do well to regain control over its public finances before finding itself definitively downgraded by its leading economic partner.
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
dsm-firmenich announces increase in share repurchase program to reduce capital to €1 billion
Press Release dsm-firmenich announces increase in share repurchase program to reduce capital to €1 billion Kaiseraugst (Switzerland), Maastricht (Netherlands), June 27, 2025 dsm-firmenich, innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, announced on February 13, 2025 its intention to repurchase ordinary shares with an aggregate market value of €1 billion and reduce its issued capital. This share repurchase program started for an initial €500 million and will now be increased to €1 billion, following the completion of the previously announced sale of dsm-firmenich's stake in the Feed Enzymes Alliance. On April 1, 2025, the company commenced a program to repurchase ordinary shares for a total amount of €580 million, of which €80 million to cover commitments under the Group's share-based compensation plans and €500 million to reduce its issued capital. The second tranche of €500 million of the share repurchase program was conditional on the completion of the sale of dsm-firmenich's stake in the Feed Enzymes Alliance. Now that the sale has been completed, the share repurchase program will be increased to €1,080 million with effect from June 27, 2025. The increased program will be completed no later than January 30, 2026. The share repurchase mandate will be executed in accordance with the Market Abuse Regulation and within the limitations of Swiss law. dsm-firmenich has signed an amended discretionary buyback contract with a bank to manage the execution of the €1,080 million share repurchase program on its behalf and to make trading decisions under the Agreement independently of dsm-firmenich. As of the date of this press release, the company had repurchased c. 3.6 million of its own ordinary shares under the share repurchase program. Based on the closing price of the dsm-firmenich ordinary share on Euronext Amsterdam on June 26, 2025, the total number of ordinary shares that remain to be repurchased under the program amounts to approximately 8.1 million shares, or 3.0% of ordinary shares issued. In accordance with regulations, dsm-firmenich will inform the market about the progress made in the execution of this upsized share repurchase program through weekly press releases. For more information, please contact: dsm-firmenich investor relations enquiries:Email: investors@ dsm-firmenich media enquiries:Email: media@ About dsm-firmenichAs innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures, and combines vital nutrients, flavors, and fragrances for the world's growing population to thrive. With our comprehensive range of solutions, with natural and renewable ingredients and renowned science and technology capabilities, we work to create what is essential for life, desirable for consumers, and more sustainable for the planet. dsm-firmenich is a Swiss company with dual headquarters in Kaiseraugst, Switzerland and Maastricht, Netherlands, listed on the Euronext Amsterdam, with operations in almost 60 countries and revenues of more than €12 billion. With a diverse, worldwide team of nearly 30,000 employees, we bring progress to life every day, everywhere, for billions of people. Disclaimer This press release does not constitute or form part of, an offer or any solicitation of an offer for securities in any jurisdiction. This press release may contain forward-looking statements with respect to dsm-firmenich's future. Such statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections of dsm-firmenich and information currently available to the company. dsm-firmenich cautions readers that such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and therefore it should be understood that many factors can cause actual performance and position to differ materially from these statements. dsm-firmenich has no obligation to update the statements contained in this press release, unless required by law. This communication contains information that qualifies as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The English language version of this press release prevails over other language versions. Attachment Press release_dsm-firmenich announces increase in share repurchase program to reduce capital to €1 billion_20250627_FINALError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
André Rieu's 2025 concert to be screened in Bournemouth cinema
André Rieu's 2025 Maastricht concert will be broadcast in more than 600 UK cinemas, including one in Bournemouth.. The performances on Saturday, August 30 and Sunday, August 31 will feature the violinist and his orchestra in Vrijthof Square, Maastricht. Highlights will include The Blue Danube waltz and Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley. Rieu will be joined by special guests, including The Voice Kids star Emma Kok. André Rieu's 2025 Maastricht concert to screen in 600+ UK cinemas (Image: Marcel van Hoorn) Rieu said: "The Vrijthof is a very special place for me. "I grew up in Maastricht, my heart beats here. "These concerts are a great celebration every year - for my city, for my orchestra and for fans from all over the world. "I'm really looking forward to sharing unforgettable evenings full of music and joy with you in cinemas around the world." Charlotte Hawkins from Classic FM will provide backstage access and an interview with Rieu for cinema audiences. The concerts mark 20 years of André Rieu's Vrijthof Square performances, which attract nearly 150,000 people each year. The cinema screening is presented by Piece of Magic Entertainment. The company specialises in theatrical distribution of documentaries, feature films, anime, live gaming events and concerts. For more information on the screenings and to book tickets, visit
