Theatres & concert halls

Classical venues

Amsterdam has three concert halls where classical pieces are performed: the Concertgebouw, Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ and the Muziektheater. These three concert halls are all characterised by unique architecture. The oldest of the three – the Concertgebouw (1886) – was designed by the architect Van Gendt. He was also responsible for designing the Hollandsche Manege (stables), the IJsbreker and Frascati. The Muziektheater (1986) forms part of a complex that also accommodates Amsterdam’s Stadhuis or City Hall. This multi-functionality is evident from the complex’s nickname ‘Stopera’ (from Stadhuis and Opera). Muziekgebouw aan ’t IJ was opened in 2005. This glass complex beautifully situated on the River IJ always makes for an elegant evening out.

Concert venues

Until recently Amsterdam was fairly poorly off as far as larger concert venues were concerned. Pop temple Paradiso, well-known for its good acoustics, can accommodate around 1,700 visitors. The nearby Melkweg fits a slightly smaller audience. Large shows take place in ArenA Stadium. But for a long time the city didn’t really have any venues suitable for medium-sized shows (attracting around 5,000 visitors). This gap has to some extent been filled by the Heineken Music Hall (HMH), but there are also plans to build more medium-sized and larger venues near ArenA.

Theatres

Amsterdam has no shortage of theatres. The city has a total of around 225 stages divided among seventy theatres. Every year, some 19,000 performances are staged here.

Stadsschouwburg Theatre is home to resident theatre company Toneelgroep Amsterdam, renowned for its contemporary interpretations of classic plays. Until recently, most musicals were staged at the elegant Carré, but have also started appearing at the recently renovated DeLaMar Theatre. Some musicals are in English. Both venues also stage plays, concerts and comedy performances. For less commercial performances, see the listings for the off-broadway theatres located on Nes, a street running parallel to Rokin.

For stand-up comedy and the mixed song-sketch-stand-up form known as cabaret, try venues such as Boom Chicago, Comedy Café, Toomler (under the Hilton) and Comedytheater on Nes. Boom Chicago in particular offers performances in English.

More information

Interested in taking in a show while in town? Check the Amsterdam Uitburo website for more information on Amsterdam's great selection of theatre, concerts and comedy.