Oerol, the leading theater festival on Terschelling, features performances in various locations, with some productions effectively using the environment while others fall short. This year’s festival, running until June 22nd, includes a mix of location-based theater, cooking shows, and performances addressing social issues.

“Runner,” by Orkater/De Nieuwkomers and Patrick Ribeiro, stands out for its raw and honest portrayal of a teenager committing a sexual offense in a Rotterdam suburb. The performance is set in a space in the woods, and the surroundings unexpectedly create a sense of discomfort for the audience. The mix of theater, spoken word, and drill rap leaves a lasting impact.

Conversely, “Amfidroom” by Peergroup, staged on a sandy beach at dawn, features a grieving man searching for connection. Despite the phenomenal location and a fiery sunrise, the performance is criticized for its poetic generalities and melodramatic emotions.

“Waterlogged,” by Julie and Cecilie Solberg, is set in a dune lake at sunset, where performers float among pieces of wood. The static nature choreography doesn’t create a special experience.

“When Did You Leave?” by Via Berlin, is a musical piece of ideas set at a long dining table in the woods, addresses burning social issues. However, the static dialogue delivery and predictable themes make it difficult for the audience to empathize.

Other performances like “Madame Jeanette” by Theater Rast, a talk and cooking show, use eating to address and bridge discomfort. “Lacuna Kitchen”, a theater dinner, examines the hidden colonialism in Western restaurant culture. “The Clown” by De Veenfabriek, features an Arabic meal shared by the audience.