Master drummer Ponda O’Bryan has passed away at age 69 after a distinguished career spent mastering West African percussion. Known for his deep connection to the spiritual roots of drumming, he traveled from his home in Amsterdam to Guinea and Mali to earn the title of djembefola.
Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
Author Koen Kleijn recounts the history of the Koninklijke Industrieele Groote Club in his latest book, Op stand aan de Dam. Because the club upholds a strict policy of secrecy, Kleijn was forced to rely on documents like statutes and membership lists rather than internal discussions to complete his research.
Amsterdam has launched a new comedy venue called Comedy Queens, which exclusively features female performers. Founder Fransje Westermann established the club to provide a supportive environment where women can develop their skills and advance their careers in comedy.
Amsterdam will again host a light and music show on the Dam this New Year's Eve to promote a festive atmosphere, as part of a city-wide effort to create new traditions amid a national ban on consumer fireworks. While the mayor praised the shift toward safer celebrations, she remains focused on managing potential illegal firework activity and resolving community tensions in neighborhoods like Floradorp.
The Lomanstraat in Amsterdam has become a major tourist attraction due to its unique crooked plane trees, which have gained fame on social media. While dozens of visitors arrive daily to photograph the trees, local residents report that the increased foot traffic does not cause them significant nuisance.
Mayor Femke Halsema has ordered two Indian restaurants in Amsterdam to close for three months following evidence of labor exploitation and human trafficking. Investigations revealed that employees were underpaid and forced to work excessive hours, with owners failing to change these practices despite previous oversight.
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