Belgian production and distribution company Studio 100, which specializes in family entertainment, and leading Dutch language public radio station VRT Radio 2 are preparing “Hallo Radio 2,” a musical looking back at the unique atmosphere of Radio 2 in the seventies.
After earlier feel-good musicals like “Vergeet Barbara” (“Forget Barbara,” honoring singer Will Tura) and “Tien om te zien” (a musical based on the Flemish TV chart show of the same name), Studio 100 will show audiences a familiar story that appeals to a broad audience. Radio 2 presenter Peter Van de Veire and singer and actor Chris Van Tongelen — two strong personalities in the Flemish media — will take the lead roles in the musical.
“Hallo Radio 2” takes the audience on a musical journey through recognizable classics and iconic Flemish hits from the seventies, paying tribute to the crucial role the public radio station played in promoting Flemish music culture. The musical will be staged in a new Studio 100 theater in Hofstade, where the group will kick off a new chapter of live entertainment in 2027.
“I live and sleep radio; it’s a medium that connects people. I know how special it is to each of us to use our voices. My character in the musical is a guy living for radio, always thinking “on air” to make every broadcast a success,” commented de Veire.
Anja van Mensel, CEO of Studio 100 Benelux, said the musical brings both a small and a big story. “A small story because it focuses on human dreams, a big tale because it is about radio, a universe appealing to the imagination.”
“Radio 2 has been leading the Flemish audience ratings for decades and is part of the daily life of millions of Dutch-speaking listeners,” added Rino Ver Eecke, Radio 2’s station manager. “This musical is a fictional story combining recognizable elements of Radio 2’s history with the stories and memories of our audience. In addition to bringing radio to the musical stage, we add the warm feeling of connection, recognition and experiencing together.”
“Hallo Radio 2” premieres March 21, 2027
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