ARTIS
Organize a benefit evening for the ARTIS Aquarium at the designated location, while it is still under renovation.
The renowned ARTIS Aquarium is currently undergoing extensive restoration and is set to reopen to the public in 2026. As a crucial step in bridging the final financial gap, we organized a benefit evening centered around and hosted at the Aquarium.
For this special occasion, the historic building was brought to life in a unique way. Theater producer Steef de Jong, renowned for his colorful, creative, and now-iconic cardboard décors, transformed the empty aquarium tanks into a mythological underwater world.
Guests arrived exclusively via the grand steps of the monumental building, an entrance typically not in use. They were welcomed in style with valet parking (for both cars and bikes!). A sea-blue carpet guided them to the vestibule for a festive reception. The evening kicked off with a vibrant performance by Jungle by Night, followed by Steef de Jong symbolically cutting the ribbon to open access to the Aquarium Hall.
In this iconic hall, guests were treated to a Michelin-starred dinner by chef Thomas Groot (Restaurant 212), a program hosted by Beau van Erven Dorens, and performances by Kris Berry, Marlijn Weerdenburg, and a captivating water illusion by Victor Mids. The attendees' enthusiasm culminated in an auction led by Benthe van Veggel-Tupker (ADAMS auction house), resulting in a remarkable amount raised—an essential step toward completing the ARTIS Aquarium restoration.
"The benefit evening at the ARTIS Aquarium was an unforgettable experience, bringing together the magic of the past and the future of this iconic building. Thanks to the support of XSAGA, it was a seamlessly organized event filled with wonder and creativity."
Rembrandt Sutorius, ARTIS-directeur
