Ruud Smulders, Lisa Ostermann, and the duo Yentl en de Boer won a Poelifinario during the annual Cabaretgala at Theater Diligentia in The Hague on Monday evening, October 12, 2026, nos.nl reported. The Vereniging van Schouwburg- en Concertgebouwdirecties (VSCD) hands out the awards, which stand as the most important Dutch cabaret prizes.
The Winners and Categories at Theater Diligentia
Smulders claimed his first Poelifinario in the Entertainment category for his show RÜDSICHTSLOS, according to nrc.nl. Ostermann secured her second win in the Engagement category for her show De Baas. The jury praised her combination of pure candor and delightfully nonsensical silliness, nos.nl reported. Yentl en de Boer also collected their second Poelifinario, winning in the Kleinkunst category for their performance Rekhalzen. The jury noted that their signature humor shines through in quirky songs about obstacles, unfulfilled promised gifts, and the surreal experience of singing to a man at his deathbed. Meanwhile, the Neerlands Hoop prize for promising theater makers went to David Linszen for his show Striptease van de dood, as confirmed by headliner.nl.
Tribute Paid to Paulien Cornelisse During the Gala
The evening brought together performers and theater directors to honor the past season’s standout theatrical productions across the Netherlands.
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Additional Nominees and Trends in Cabaret
The wider field of nominees included Rayen Panday with Grip, Saman Amini with Saman Amini’s Integratieplan #2: alles is perspectief, and Ayoub Kharkhach with En verbied de vogels om te fluiten, showcasing migration and integration themes. Other nominated works featured Louise Korthals in Korthals in stukken, Sarah Janneh in Brabo Leone, and Maartje & Kine in De bingo show. Furthermore, Isabelle Kafando with ROF DAAIMUND and Merijn Scholten with Lemming presented tightly edited sketch shows featuring rapid scenes that conclude as abruptly as they begin.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cabaret Awards
Who organizes the Poelifinario awards ceremony?
The Vereniging van Schouwburg- en Concertgebouwdirecties (VSCD) manages and presents the awards annually.
Which categories make up the Poelifinario prizes?
The awards are split into three categories: Entertainment, Engagement, and Kleinkunst.
Who won the Neerlands Hoop award for promising talent?
David Linszen won the Neerlands Hoop prize for his show Striptease van de dood.
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