Bert Pollux

Vastelaovend has been a constant theme throughout his life since he was young. In his parents' pakhoes, he was already writing songs, princes were proclaimed, and fun activities were organized. So, he truly has a vastelaoves family. They were involved in everything and always found in Venlo. Organizing and performing were instilled in him from a young age. This role is truly meant for him. For example, he co-organizes the ‘Jaorvergadering’ of vvvvvvvvvvv de Waus, writes lyrics for parody groups and (young) ‘buuttereedners’ from Venlo, and also sings various songs with his brother, Herm Pollux. During vasteloavend, Bert is an indispensable figure in Venlo.

For 40 years, he has been singing with his brother. In 1982, they won for the first time during the Leedjesaovend in Venlo. There, they performed the song ‘Äojei!’ written by their uncle Addie. It was their first participation, and they won right away! This was the second vastelaoves highlight of his life. They participated again this year. Frans Pollux had asked them to sing one of his songs, and of course, they couldn't say no. They ended up in a respectable fifth place. Bert says, ‘That was a nice conclusion, but never say never!’’

Secretly, Bert looks forward the most to Friday afternoon. On this day, he goes out with the board of vvvvvvvvvvv De Waus. They then have a fun tour through the city, and for Bert, this is the official start of vastelaovend. The vastelaoveszôndaag is also a special day for Bert because this day is entirely dedicated to his children and grandchildren.

He finds meeting people the most enjoyable during the carnival. From acquaintances, friends, family to even strangers. What Bert enjoys every year are the many visits and performances at nursing homes and senior sessions. 'It's just so much fun to do.'

Bert looks back with much admiration at all the beautiful moments together with his brother. 'We have been fortunate to experience a lot. One of the most skilled performances my brother and I did was in 2008 at the Maaspoort in Venlo, with nearly 1,200 people in the audience. There we sang the song 'Ingelkesbal', where we descended as little angels from heaven. That afternoon will always stay with me.'