Forum Groningen

“From the outside, it’s a sort of spaceship, and the future lies within,” says Afra as she stands right in front of the Forum. The futuristic design makes many people look twice. There’s a new surprise from every angle. And there’s plenty going on inside – from entertainment to art and culture. Topped off with a stunning view over the city and the surrounding countryside. ‘There’s bound to be something exciting to experience there.’ My favourite spot in the Forum is that small, cosy room on the third floor, where the pool table is. I still love getting lost in the cinema auditoriums. It happens so often that I step out of the lift and think: where on earth have I ended up now? There’s a really mysterious atmosphere there, thanks to those red velvet staircases.”

By organising unique events that break down taboos, VERS is making its own mark on Forum Groningen. “We introduce young people to different ways of thinking and break down prejudices. And we do so in an accessible way,” says Afra. It should be a place where young people feel free to contribute their ideas and engage in discussion. Not only does she teach them all sorts of things about theatre and culture, but Afra also learns a great deal from the young people in return.

“Apparently, there really is such a thing as a generation gap. I’m only 25, but I already feel that I grew up in a completely different era. I find today’s young people much more activist and open-minded than what I remember from my own youth. I get the impression that these days they’re taught much earlier on that it doesn’t matter what colour someone is, or what their religion or sexual orientation is. I think that’s really good. I’ve also noticed that young people today take political issues, such as climate change, very seriously. They’re genuinely prepared to take to the streets together for these causes. I think that’s really cool to see."

''And have you seen the cool exhibition on the fourth floor yet?'' asks Afra. ''You have to see it. My enthouasiastic colleague Jos will be happy to tell you more about it. He takes you through decades of gaming history. Game On is about more than fifty years of video games. From the first game with few pixels to today's technical masterpieces. From paying 25 cents for a round to game consoles in living rooms. From Pong to Minecraft. ''Although the first computer game came out in 1971, it really started to grow in the 1980s with the arcades,'' says Jos. In the years that followed, companies like Sony, Nintendo and Sega developed countless games. And not just for the young. Everyone has a thing for them. ''Who doesn't want to race, fly or be an animal?'' The two exhibition halls with countless games from days gone by evoke nostalgia for many visitors. The games of the past are relived. ''It makes everyone a little child again.''

Finally, Afra has some tips for you. After all, Groningen is her home port. With plenty of spots worth checking out. At points or sometimes just around the corner. "Backbone is such a valuable but undiscovered place where I like to be. The former schoolgebouw with BMX and skate park is literally the backbone for youth culture in Groningen.'' She also enjoys going to the theatre. Preferably to the Grand Theatre. With local and national exhibitions. There is always something to see. ''Feel free to take a look there. You really don't have to be posh or dressed up to go to the theatre. But just go, because it's a lot of fun.'' Furthermore, she finds the Orange neighbourhood near the Noorderplantsoen a fantastic area to walk through. ''That's not so much hidden, but it's lovely to look at houses there. And I end the day at Café de Bres. Such a typical brown pub we can be proud of in Groningen.''