Massih Hutak and Merlijn Twaalfhoven will open Blikopener Festival on Friday evening at 6:30 PM. The Dutch-speaking hip-hop artist, producer, and writer Massih, from Amsterdam-Noord, founded the hip-hop-inspired grassroots movement Defend North. Listen to his inspiring story during the opening. Massih passionately discusses the approach of Defend North and how they succeed in bringing together and connecting communities and cultures.

Musician and designer of concerts and experiences Merlijn Twaalfhoven, along with musician Jurriaan Berger, will create a collective musical piece based on the idea: "singing power as breathing space." Often, people think that singing requires special talent or practice. Merlijn will show you that not only can you sing, but together we can design an adventurous improvisational composition in a short time. This session will take you out of your head, enhancing your intuitive and listening skills.