The hidden force was created in the Ruhrtriënnale mid-September. During the next two years, Ivo van Hove will be bringing two other novels by Couperus to the stage.

1900, Java. Otto van Oudijck governs his province with vigour. He sees himself as the representative of a superior European culture. He lives for his work. For the colony, which he wants to bring to a higher level. He is oblivious to the fact that his wife is having affairs with other men. But when Van Oudijck dismisses a local regent for misconduct, mysterious things start to happen in his house and around him.