The Nose: a musical performance

About the Performance

Composer Renske Vrolijk and librettist Sanne Schuhmacher wrote The Nose on commission for the musicians of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. Together, they created a story that brings the world of friendship, bullying, and popularity to life in a playful and engaging way.

Nena’s Dream

In a world where having a short nose gets you excluded, Nena fervently dreams having of the longest nose and being popular. When her nose stops growing one day, she panics. She tries everything to get it growing again, even a selfmade miracle cream, but nothing works. Her dream seems further away than ever. Her best friend tries to help, but Nena pushes her away. She doesn’t want pity; she wants admiration.

A Dangerous Power

Then Nena discovers a new, dangerous power: she can lie without her nose growing. She tells the most fantastical stories, which even give the other children nightmares. Nena enjoys the attention and influence she has in an almost cruel way. When her best friend, in desperation, reveals her secret, Nena fears everyone will be angry. But to her own amazement, the opposite happens: she becomes wildly popular.

The Price of Popularity

Nena has everything she ever wanted, but feels unhappier than ever. She is surrounded by fans, but who is truly her friend? Who likes her for who she is, and who just wants to ride on her coattails? She realizes she misses her best friend and that one true friendship is worth more than the admiration of the entire school. In the end, she takes the step to make things right.