AMSTERDAM - The renowned Curaçaoan mezzo-soprano Tania Kross has had a remarkable year. Not only did she perform for Princess Beatrix in Curaçao, but she has also joined the Palace Committee of the Royal Palace Amsterdam Foundation. This was reported by the ANP news agency.
This committee, which also includes King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima, and Princess Beatrix, plays a significant role in organizing exhibitions and events at the Royal Palace Amsterdam.
Tania Kross expressed her honor at her new role in the Palace Committee. "It's a very nice group, and they like me too. So fortunately, we have a match," she said with a smile in an interview with ANP. The committee, consisting of figures such as Amsterdam's mayor Femke Halsema, astronaut André Kuipers, and writer Joris Luyendijk, advises the foundation on various cultural activities.
Kross, who earlier this year received the prestigious Johannes Vermeer Prize, has not been able to contribute much to the foundation due to her busy schedule. However, she expects to become more involved early next year. "I'm going to experience it all," she said with anticipation.
A special moment this year was performing for Princess Beatrix in Curaçao. Kross, accompanied by women from her former girls' choir and an elementary school class, gave a heartwarming performance at the Savonet estate. "I approached the school myself, and we practiced the songs with them, which was so much fun to do," she recalled. Princess Beatrix was impressed with the performance and the children, whom she described as "cute" and "incredibly nice."
"Of course, she is Princess Beatrix, but she remains our queen in our hearts," said Kross. She expressed her admiration for Beatrix's engagement and interest. "You can see that she is a very strong person. I hope she knows that she can always come to us. She will be received with open arms," said Kross.
This news emphasizes the cultural connection between Curaçao and the Netherlands. Kross's performance for Princess Beatrix in Curaçao symbolizes the strong ties and shared history between the two countries. Her role in the Palace Committee further strengthens this cultural bridge and provides a platform for Curaçaoan art and culture in the Netherlands.