Veil of Secrets

Many different stories are circulating about Mata Hari (or Margaretha Geertruida Zelle). It is difficult to say what is true and what is not. What is certain is that her life is full of mystery, temptation, deception and drama. She works her way up into the elite circles in a unique way, seduces men with her exotic dance and she even seems to work as a double agent. She is enchanting and has a veil around her, both literally and figuratively. Moreover, she has a great sense of drama.

Part 1 - “Creating Mata Hari” Margaretha, originally Frisian, hides behind the name Mata Hari, as an exotic dancer after her introduction to Indian culture. In this movement we hear the main melody of the work, reminiscent of Javanese and Balinese gamelan music.

Part 2 - “Facade” For years, Mata Hari has stood her ground thanks to her charismatic appearance, her strong will and self-confidence. She's a master of illusion — perhaps even believing her own story in the end...

Part 3 - “Dancing Kisses” Her dance is her weapon, her mask, her identity. Even when she is arrested and sentenced to death for espionage, she continues to play her role. She calmly and theatrically blows kisses to the people around her, until the very last moment.