Ballet and classical dance in Amsterdam

In good company

Amsterdam is home to the Dutch National Ballet, the largest dance company in the Netherlands with 80 dancers. Despite its name, the Dutch National Ballet is an international company with dancers from 30 countries who have performed with other prestigious companies such as the Mariinksy Ballet in St. Petersburg, The Royal Ballet in London, the English National Ballet, the San Francisco Ballet and the New York City Ballet. The Dutch National Ballet gives 70 performances each year in Amsterdam, as well as an additional 25 performances in the Netherlands and abroad. This year, the Dutch National Ballet is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

The current artistic director Ted Brandsen was formerly a dancer at the Dutch National Ballet. He was previously employed as an international freelance choreographer and as the artistic director of the West Australian Ballet, before returning to the Dutch National Ballet in 2001.

Moving music

Ballet is not only mesmerising for the dancing - the music is also an integral part of the experience. And the Holland Symfonia that accompanies the Dutch National Ballet does not disappoint! They also accompany other dance companies in the Netherlands and hold independent concerts known for their provocative programs.

Repertoire and choreography

The Dutch National Ballet presents two or three "classics" a year, ranging from successful existing productions (like La Sylphide, Giselle and The Sleeping Beauty), to new productions especially created for the company (like Romeo and Juliet, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker and the Mouse King). The Dutch National Ballet strongly supports the development of young Dutch choreographic talent. Resident choreographers have included Rudi van Dantzig, Hans van Manen and Toer van Schayk. Their work is internationally acclaimed and performed by companies all over the world. Choreographers from abroad are also regularly invited to create new performances exclusively for the Dutch National Ballet.

In fine form

Not only are the dancers graceful, the performance venues will delight your senses as well! Here are a few of Amsterdam's premier locations for ballet and classical dance:

The Amsterdam Music Theatre
The Amsterdam Music Theatre (Het Muziektheater) is home to the Dutch National Ballet. With room for 1,600 visitors, the Muziektheater is one of the largest theatres in Europe. Its magnificent location on the Amstel makes it the perfect venue for a memorable evening out. The theatre boasts comfortable seating, excellent lines of sight and spacious foyers with a variety of bars. If you’d like to know what goes on behind that huge red curtain, why not join a guided tour held every Saturday at 12:00? To book call +31 20 551 80 54.

Carré
Formerly a circus theatre, the Royal Theatre Carré is one of Amsterdam’s best-known venues. Its romantic location on the Amstel is certainly fit for a queen – or anyone who wants to feel like one.

The Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam
Located on the lively Leidseplein, Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam is a unique baroque building with a rich history. The nearby restaurants and bars in the neighbourhood are perfect dinner or drinks before or after the show.

RAI Theatre
The Amsterdam RAI Theatre is an attractive location on the edge of town where 1,750 people can enjoy major theatre productions as well as classical and pop concerts.

Tickets please

Visit the Amsterdam Uitburo Ticketshop for the current performance agenda and tickets. Or if you´d like to try your luck on the actual day of the performance, the Last Minute Ticket Shop sells any remaining tickets for same-day performances at 50% off the regular price.