In the beginning of 2010, Utrecht-based theater artist Tjerk Ridder, set out on a journey to visit the three European capitals of culture, with only his dog, guitar and caravan to keep him company. Eventually he added Peter Bijl to the mix, but they still had no car to tow the caravan. Thus, they set out to explore the cities, experience the culture and hospitality, and live the metaphor that you need others in order to move forward in life.

In this unusual way of hitchhiking, they managed to complete their journey. They started out here in Utrecht and made their way to the European Capitals of Culture for 2010: The Ruhr-Area in Germany, Pécs in Hungary and Istanbul in Turkey. As they found people to give them and their caravan a lift, they asked the people who helped them about their own dreams and hopes for the future. All of the information and stories they gathered during their trip will be compiled into a musical theater performance to be produced in various cities at the completion of the project.

For now, you can view a special exhibit of the project at the Stadhuis (Korte Minrebroederstraat 2) here in Utrecht. The exposition runs until October 31, 2010. Entrance is free. You can check out their website (in English, Dutch and German) for more information about the project.