Staging Whiteness: A Critical Examination of National Identity in Dutch Musical

Abstract

Academic research on Dutch musical has been severely limited, with existing scholarship primarily focused on exploring national identity. However, the notion of national identity is inherently limited, often failing to capture the nuances of identity formation within diverse societies. This thesis aims to expand the discourse by critically examining how constructed notions of national identity in Dutch musicals intersect with and perpetuate the hegemony of whiteness. Through in-depth dramaturgical analyses and examinations of casting strategies in the two case studies Soldaat van Oranje and Boni de Musical this research reveals contrasting approaches to representing Dutch national identity.

Soldaat van Oranje reinforces narratives rooted in white innocence and supremacy, overlooking the nation’s own historical injustices through its predominantly white cast and selective portrayal of wartime resistance. Conversely, Boni de Musical subverts these conventions by centering the story of the Surinamese resistance leader Boni and his fight against Dutch colonial oppression, incorporating a diverse cast and integrating Surinamese cultural elements. This thesis argues that Soldaat van Oranje aligns with and perpetuates whiteness as the default norm within Dutch society, marginalizing non-white experiences and erasing the complexities of race, power, and privilege. In contrast, Boni de Musical challenges these hegemonic narratives, fostering a more inclusive vision of Dutch national identity that celebrates cultural diversity and encourages critical engagement with historical injustices.

This research highlights the urgent need to confront whiteness within Dutch musical, both in thematic content and visual representation, to foster a more inclusive and equitable sector. By acknowledging the systemic biases that prioritize whiteness and perpetuate narratives of white supremacy, this thesis prompts critical reflection on the complexities of Dutch cultural memory. Furthermore, it calls for continued scholarly investigations and dialogues to address systemic biases, amplify underrepresented voices, and embrace a broader, more inclusive approach to understanding national identity.