The five Wonka Podia theatres today presented the very first copy of the new English-language No Dutch Required Magazine 2026-2027 to Paul van Nunen, director of Brainport Development. With this publication, the collaborating theatres aim to help internationals in the Brainport region more easily discover theatre, comedy, music and family performances that can be enjoyed without speaking Dutch.
The magazine is a joint initiative by Wonka Podia: Theater De Schalm, Parktheater Eindhoven, Het Speelhuis, De Hofnar and De Kattendans. The English-language publication brings together all “No Dutch Required” performances from the participating theatres, complemented by the international programme of the Wonka Comedy Festival and recommendations for families and newcomers to the region.
According to the theatres, the magazine directly connects with Brainport’s development as an international region.
“Brainport is growing rapidly and attracting people from all over the world. But a region only becomes truly attractive when people also feel socially and culturally at home. Culture plays a much bigger role in that than is often realised. With this magazine, we are making the theatres of this region more accessible to thousands of internationals and their families,” the Wonka Podia theatres said jointly.
The Eindhoven region now has a large and steadily growing international community. For many internationals, it can still be difficult to find cultural events that are accessible regardless of language. The theatres therefore see a clear need for greater visibility and easy access through a shared platform.
Paul van Nunen officially received the first copy and highlighted the importance of culture within Brainport’s development:
“Brainport is not only about technology and innovation, but above all about people. International talent does not choose a region based solely on a job, but on whether they and their families feel welcome there. Initiatives like this magazine help create connection and show that culture in Brainport is truly for everyone.”
With the magazine, the Wonka Podia theatres hope not only to better reach internationals, but also to encourage encounters and connections between the many different communities living in the region.
Free copies of the No Dutch Required Magazine 2026-2027 will be available from 8 May at all participating Wonka Podia theatres. The magazine will also be distributed through various international networks and partners across the Brainport region.
About Wonka Podia
Wonka Podia is a collaboration between theatres in the Brainport region focused on joint programming, audience development and innovative cultural projects. Through the No