What are the most beautiful theater halls in Brussels?
Updated on January 18, 2023 by Pierre
Brussels is a cultural city par excellence . Its residents, expats, and tourists alike have access to an impressive array of iconic venues that celebrate the arts. Among these are a remarkable number of theaters in Brussels: the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie, the Royal Flemish Theatre, the Bourse Theatre… The performing arts have been present in every corner of the Belgian capital for a long time.
This is the case with the Toone Theatre; this former granary, dating back to 1696, still delights children with its puppet shows. Over time, some legendary theatres have unfortunately disappeared from the Brussels scene. The Alhambra Theatre, for example, is a notable exception . Fortunately, many other charming theatres continue to exist and enchant audiences with their performances.
If, for you, a beautiful theater is one with heavy red velvet curtains, baroque murals and balconies, and breathtaking ceilings… we've selected some that are well worth a visit if you've never seen them. Besides the La Monnaie opera house, here are four venues that will transport you to another era. These are the Brussels theaters that, in our opinion, boast the most beautiful auditoriums in Brussels:
- Royal Theater of the Galleries
- Toone Royal Theater
- The KVS
- Martyrs' Theater
1. Royal Theater of the Galleries
Did you know that during the renovation of this theater in 1951, it was Magritte who painted the cloudy sky on the ceiling? If not, you absolutely must visit. This place has a rich history. It has existed since 1847. From the very beginning, it has maintained its mission of promoting theatrical activity and has remained true to its image as a theater of entertainment. Every year it welcomes more than 100,000 spectators!
Once inside, you'll notice architecture inspired by the Italian Renaissance . You won't be able to miss the ubiquitous red velvet and the gilded ornaments that are so prominent in the decor.
The program features plays mainly in French, as well as classics ( Feydeau , Molière , Shakespeare , Pirandello , Agatha Christie…) but also contemporary French-speaking authors ( Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt and Anne-Marie Etienne ).
It is in the Galeries Royale Saint-Hubert that you will find it.
📍 King's Gallery 32, 1000 Brussels
2. Toone Royal Theater
Here, there are no red velvet curtains or gilded ornaments, but rather colorful cushions on wooden benches. This theater has existed since 1696 , when this attic was first built. And yet, it continues to exist today. Legendary for young and old alike, this theater is well worth a visit . Here, there are no popular actors, but rather a puppet theater . Be warned, behind this childlike concept lies a theater for adults based on classics (Cyrano de Bergerac, The Three Musketeers, etc.).
Wondering where the name "Toone" comes from? It's simply the name of the puppeteer who plays all the characters. Historically, Toone is always installed by the previous Toone. He is assisted by his six puppeteers who articulate the " puppet " characters.
📍 Rue du Marché Aux Herbes 66, 1000 Brussels
3. Koninklijke Vlaamse Schouwburg (KVS)
The KVS was born in the middle of the 19th century. He was seen at the time as the symbol of Dutch-speaking theater in Brussels. The history of the KVS is dense and rather rich with its alternation of turbulent and fruitful passages.
In terms of architecture, the building is a successful example of the Flemish neo-Renaissance style. However, you will not be able to miss the evacuation system designed by the architect with imposing exterior balconies. These give the theater a rather unique look. The building plays with Art Nouveau and iron, glass. Do not miss to visit this building which mixes cultures, genres and generations.
Be careful, if you are chilly, take a sweater, the temperature in the room can be quite cold during the performance
📍 Wharf Pierres de Taille 7, 1000 Brussels
4. Theater of the Martyrs
Did you know that 466 revolutionaries who lost their lives fighting for independence from Belgium are buried in Place des Martyrs. It was at the Théâtre de La Monnaie itself that the revolution for the independence of Belgium began. The square is located in the center of Brussels, near the famous rue Neuve.
If you've never been, you should know that this theater is full of surprises . Tucked away behind one of Brussels' busiest shopping streets, you'll discover an 18th-century neoclassical oasis. The Place de la Blanchisserie surrounding it and the perfect symmetry of its white facades are reminiscent of the laundry where sheets were once dried. A little further on, at number 22, is a modern theater with an expandable auditorium seating 366, a small studio, and a café.
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Barely a foot in the Belgian capital, Pierre launched “InsideBrussels.be” more than 10 years ago, the idea is simple: “What to do? Where to go to eat or have a drink? “. Entrepreneur at heart, this is not his first project! Far from there. EatLocal.io; KingCard.be, Bricabrac.be … Like wine, with time the project improves!
Pierre does not hesitate to share his favorites and his best addresses of Brussels restaurants that he could recommend to you with his eyes closed.
