Historic Dakota Aircraft Returns to Aviodrome Following Soldaat van Oranje Closure
The Douglas C-47 Dakota aircraft that served as a theatrical prop for the long-running Dutch musical Soldaat van Oranje is heading back to Lelystad, according to the production organization following inquiries from Omroep Flevoland. The milestone move comes after the definitive curtain call for the production on July 12, closing a 15-year chapter in Dutch theater history.
Soldaat van Oranje chronicles the wartime experiences of Erik Hazelhoff Roelfzema and his university companions. The narrative first adapted into a 1977 feature film before transitioning to the stage in 2010.
Transport Challenges and the Aviodrome Partnership
Securing an authentic aircraft for the theater hangar in Katwijk proved logistically difficult. The original plane selected for the production became severely stuck on an A44 highway overpass during transit, forcing the production team to source an alternative vehicle.
At the time, the National Aerospace Museum Aviodrome held four historic Dakota aircraft in its collection and agreed to loan one for the production. To prevent a repeat of the initial transport disaster, Aviodrome managed the logistics independently. Workers disassembled the aircraft and transported it across three trailers to the Valkenburg airfield in Katwijk by late September 2010, ensuring safe delivery to the theater site.
Did you know?
The Dakota aircraft spent more than 15 years housed inside the theater hangar in Katwijk before organizers announced its upcoming repatriation to Lelystad.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Dakota aircraft arrive back at Aviodrome?
According to the musical’s organization, a precise return date for the aircraft to the Aviodrome museum has not yet been announced.
Why was a replacement aircraft needed for the musical?
The initial plane chosen for the stage production suffered heavy damage when it became wedged underneath a viaduct on the A44 during its transit to Katwijk.
How long was the aircraft used in the production?
The Dakota remained part of the set design at the theater in Katwijk for over 15 years, until the production ended its run on July 12.
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