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I’ve often wondered what impression the Damrak provides to visitors of Amsterdam? As far as first impressions go, the stretch of Amsterdam between the Central Station and the Dam Square is probably one of the most important. It is however crammed full by stinking snack bars and tourist boutiques selling expensive but useless crap of unimaginable ugliness, and manned by employees who rarely speak decent Dutch and obviously do not come from this neck of the woods. If that were my first impression I would run away frothing, screaming and deluded – as I often do. Whenever I visit a strange city, I like to look beyond the repulsive tourist boutiques and see if I can sense what makes this particular place unique. Finding out what the real natives do usually provides an interesting trail to a city’s hidden, living potential.
If a tourist were to wander beyond the inanimate city exterior in the right place at the right time, for example at Mascha Rutten’s Décor Studio at Sloterdijk they may see Justice Smits exercising his passion; playing the blues on a grand. At the distinguished Artists Club Arti et Amicitiae on the Rokin they may find him at the big black grand beneath a famous Breitner rolling out Softly as in the Morning Sunrise in the spacious classical hall. If they are especially lucky they might see him together with singer Marion Bentoera at Café ‘t Bruine Paard on the Prinsengracht whilst an audience is riveted to their blues. This is what brings Amsterdam to life! This is what goes on beyond the facades - on the inside of Amsterdam.
In the series Inside Amsterdam, DutchVlog is going to reveal just some of the uniqueness that distinguishes Amsterdam from everywhere else. In the next episode DutchVlog will go inside the bustling Hip Hop Amsterdam – so check your life insurance and brace yourselves!
BOOKING
If you would like more information about Justus Smits or to book him you can send a mail to jcasmits@xs4all.nl or call (int.) 00 31 (0)20 6814773 (local) 020 6814773. You can also leave a comment on this Vlog and we will pass on your request.
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