Theo en Thea is a Dutch comedy duo and a youth program of the same name that was broadcast by the VPRO between 1985 and 1989. It starred Arjan Ederveen and Tosca Niterink as the titular characters, Theo and Thea.
The duo performed sketches on various subjects, often tackling sensitive or taboo topics in a humorous way, such as sex, divorce, theft, animal cruelty, fear, war, weight, and pain. They would then break character at the end of the sketch to discuss the topic with the audience.
The program was very popular with Dutch children and teenagers, and it is still fondly remembered today. It was also successful internationally, with versions being produced in Germany, France, and Spain.
Here are some of the most iconic sketches from Theo en Thea:
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De Ontmaskering van het Tenenkaasimperium (1989): Theo and Thea want to make a movie of Snow White, but Gerard Joling, who is supposed to play the prince, drops out. Someone suggests asking opera singer Marco Bakker to take his place.
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De Echtscheiding (1987): Theo and Thea play a couple who are getting divorced. They discuss the reasons for their separation in a frank and honest way.
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Dik (1986): Theo and Thea play two overweight children who are teased by their classmates. They try different diets and exercise programs in order to lose weight, but they are unsuccessful.
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Pijn (1985): Theo and Thea play two children who are injured in accidents. They discuss the experience of pain and how to cope with it.
Theo en Thea is a classic piece of Dutch television history. The program is still enjoyed by audiences of all ages today, and it continues to be a valuable resource for children and teenagers learning about sensitive topics.