Robert Rich performed at the 7th Alfa Centauri EM Festival, March 25, 2000. At this moment we are trying to retrieve more pictures from our archives. Here are the first few.
It was the very first time we had an artist from the USA on our bill. We had to find a solution for offering him shelter: a place to sleep and to eat. We didn’t have much money and were not able to arrange for an hotel. One of the Alfa Centauri members Henk Jan van Schaik, living in Amsterdam offered shelter for Robert in his house. Ever modest and friendly Robert said it was no problem at all, but afterwards we felt ashame that we coulnd’t offer a more comfortable solution. Maybe Robert is willing to add some memories about this? Later on we were able to budget for a decent hotel for the artists where necessary. Robert replied to this with “Please don’t feel ashamed. I had a very kind and generous host named Henkjan van Schaik. He drove a tiny 3-wheel car with a lever for steering. I don’t remember how we got all the gear into it. When we got to Amsterdam the car proved itself to be the perfect choice for navigating very narrow old streets. Not only did he graciously offer hospitality to stay in his small apartment, he showed me all around Amsterdam in our time before the return flight. I would much rather have this warm human connection and friendly memories, than the impersonal solitary comfort of a hotel.”