Some evenings exude an atmosphere that instantly transports you back in time – to brown tones, wonderfully impractical hanging planters, and the scent of incense sticks that just didn't quite work. Friday, January 23, 2026, will be such an evening. As part of the National Theatre Weekend, Ernest Beuving presents his show "One of the 70s " at De Zwaan: a humorous journey through time filled with music, parodies, and wonderfully recognizable moments from the 1970s.
For someone born in 1973, this almost feels like coming home. The '70s were my childhood, the '80s my playground – and let's be honest: we had loads of that cheerful stuff at home back then. Or at least we saw it come and go. And now half the Netherlands suddenly thinks it's hip again.
Why this performance fits so well with Uitgeest
Ernest Beuving is one of those artists who can enter a room and instantly elicit collective laughter. His imitations are spot-on, his humor heartfelt, and his stories brimming with life experience – even if you didn't grow up in the 70s yourself.
And the great thing is: during National Theatre Weekend, the atmosphere at theatre performances is especially relaxed and welcoming. Theatres across the country open their doors to everyone: regulars, newcomers, families, the curious – and all at a very affordable price. It almost feels like the theatre is saying to you: Come in, tonight is your night!
De Zwaan is definitely on board – and evenings like these are a perfect fit for Uitgeest. Small, warm, personal, and with a touch of humor that will stay with you long after you've left.
What can you expect?
• Nostalgic songs and powerful vocal moments
• Imitations of 70s icons (and a few you wouldn't expect)
• Humor that will make you feel twelve years old again
• An evening of cabaret full of warmth, energy and appreciation
• A program that cheerfully jumps back and forth between music, stories, and parodies
And there's a charming wink in it: "The past isn't what it used to be." Sentences like these... you immediately feel that you're in the right place.
A personal note
Perhaps I find this performance particularly appealing because I – born in 1973 – have a fleeting impression of that era. While we didn't have beaded curtains in the house, we did own a huge brown sofa, one of those sofas that were considered "truly affordable" back then and are now suddenly totally fashionable again.
And we didn't have rattan yet – that came much later – but we did have one of the first computers at home. A device that beeped and creaked and only worked properly if you handled it very carefully.
My father also had a classic studio corner in his house: huge speakers, cables, and equipment that might make you wonder today: Why did it all have to be so big? But there was something magical about it. Music was an experience, not just a backdrop.
When I think back to that time, I don't just see the objects, but above all the atmosphere. And that's precisely what this performance touches me about: you don't just watch – you remember. You remember what music, objects, sounds, and small moments did to you.
Another reason to go
As this event is part of the National Theatre Weekend, you can enjoy an entire evening of cabaret for a low price. This makes it an ideal opportunity for anyone who wants to experience theatre in a straightforward way – alone, with friends, with family, or as a fun outing with a local group.
In short: It's one of those evenings that you don't need to plan, but simply enjoy.
Practical
Date: Friday, January 23, 2026
Time: 8:15 PM – 9:45 PM
Location: The Swan Cultural, Uitgeest
Tickets: National Theatre weekend rate (and optional theatre dinner at Restaurant KLAAS)
Finally
This performance is exactly what January needs: warmth, humor, recognition, and the wonderful feeling of being able to look back at the past for a moment – without getting stuck in it.
And the best part?
All you need to do is sit down.
Ernest will take care of the rest.