In Babylon aan de IJssel, the mystical world of Gilgamesh collides with the harsh reality of a refugee in Western Europe. In this new music theater work, Hawar Tawfiq, an Iraqi-Dutch composer, explores the clash of cultures through his evocative composition. The narrative, written by Marcel Roijaards, introduces us to an IND employee, portrayed by actress Judith Linssen. Tawfiq blends the worlds of Western classical music with the sounds of Kurdish music, creating a powerful and emotional soundscape.

The music is performed by the Hexagon Ensemble, consisting of:

• Wout van den Berg, flute
• Bram Kreeftmeijer, oboe
• Arno van Houtert, clarinet
• Marieke Stordiau, bassoon
• Christiaan Boers, horn
• Frank Peters, piano

Additionally, a selection of Iranian musicians contribute with pre-recorded material.

The production features:

• Music: Hawar Tawfiq
• Text and direction: Marcel Roijaards
• Acting: Judith Linssen
• Design: Floriaan Ganzevoort
• Music direction: Monique Krüs
• Technical support: Eelco Vellema

The result is an intense fusion of cultures, music, and powerful storytelling that challenges the boundaries between past and present.