Janneke Staarink says goodbye to the Doelen
After seven years, Janneke Staarink is leaving de Doelen. Since her arrival in 2018, she has worked with the programming team to create diverse and innovative programming. This shift in programming has enabled her to attract a broader and younger audience. In addition, she has established numerous collaborations with partners in the city, and the studios opened in October 2024 under her leadership. The studios offer space for music, art, radio, and learning and creating. They provide a platform for Rotterdam's educational institutions to connect and for social institutions to thrive.
Staarink was also responsible for the transformation of the building, which has been visible to everyone. Various projects were implemented, both in front of and behind the scenes, in the foyers, the auditoriums, and on the roof. Overdue technical maintenance was carried out in the auditoriums, the Jurriaanse Zaal received new chairs, and several foyers were renovated. In 2023, the blue-green roof was completed by the municipality of Rotterdam, het Hoogheemraadschap Schieland en de Krimpenerwaard, Arcadis, and Dura Vermeer. The blue-green roof is a visible part of Rotterdam's city center and contributes to the quality of life and water management of the city. Furthermore, the art collection was restored and expanded with eight new works by contemporary artists in collaboration with various partners. The permanent reconstruction collection was restored where necessary.
Janneke Staarink: "After exactly seven years leading this wonderful institution, the task of transforming de Doelen into a People's Palace is complete for me. The renovated Open Doelen shines once again as the original architects, Kraaijvanger, once intended: a dynamic and open space with plenty to experience, a meeting place too, for all Rotterdammers. A place that plays an important role in the city and far beyond, both commercially, culturally, and socially. I am proud of our hardworking team and the many partnerships we have forged with a fantastic group of Rotterdam partners. Associations that I expect will endure for many years to come."
The management is now in the hands of director Edo Righini, who took over on July 1st. Since 2021, he has been director of Muziekgebouw Eindhoven, where he and the team achieved a visible transformation. Under his leadership, the organization grew particularly in the areas of entrepreneurship, audience development, and inclusion. The results over the past four years at Eindhoven's music venue have been impressive. In addition, a healthy resilience has been built, and the operation is structurally sound.
We wish Janneke Staarink much success in her next challenge.
