Theatre and stage in the Amsterdam Area

Kunstlinie, Almere

Jutting out over the Weerwater lake in Almere, the impressive architecture of the Kunstlinie Theatre was designed by Japanese architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa. The stage is taken over by everyone, from dance and theatre companies to pop singers, jazz bands, comedians, cabaret acts, and touring musicals, so keep an eye on the agenda for the complete programme. There’s also an adjacent arts centre with changing exhibitions, workshops and tours led by the artists in residence.

Agora Theater, Lelystad

The attention-grabbing Agora Theater is located in a bright orange building designed by Ben van Berkel in the renovated city centre of Lelystad. Inside you’ll find a theatre and congress centre which form the cultural heart of the city. On the agenda, you’ll see a colourful lineup of comedy, avant-garde theatre, cabaret, stage shows and music nights. Restaurant Applaus, located within the building, is the perfect spot for pre-theatre fine dining or a delicious lunch on the sunny terrace.

De Schuur, Haarlem

Whether looking for contemporary dance, cutting-edge theatre or an arthouse flick, Schuur (formerly Toneelschuur) in Haarlem does it all. Housing two theatre halls and two film screens, the venue offers a unique performance programme, frequently investing in local artists and writers to help develop and nurture fresh talent. So, if you’re looking to discover something new or find a real hidden gem, this incredible venue is the perfect place to start. 

PHIL Haarlem

PHIL is Haarlem’s finest concert hall, home to the perfectly preserved late Romantic Cavaillé-Coll organ. This striking 19th-century building features numerous galleries with high ceilings, which provide outstanding acoustics. The language-no-problem programme includes dance performances, pop concerts, classical music, and plays in English or without speech. For a truly authentic experience, why not catch a performance by the Dutch Philharmonic or Chamber Orchestras?

Stadsschouwburg, Haarlem

One of the most beautiful and oldest theatres in the Netherlands, Haarlem’s Stadsschouwburg does it all: plays, opera, dance and musical shows - often in English or without any speech. The charming classic theatre hall – initially opened in 1918 - boasts golden walls, colourful mosaics, red-plush interiors, ornate ceilings and an eye-catching chandelier. The intimate theatre is lovingly referred to as the bonbonniere (ornate candy box) by locals, making it a fabulous setting for a memorable night out.

Caprera Open-Air Theatre, Bloemendaal

Nestled between the dunes and the forest at Bloemendaal, you will find one of the most beautiful open-air theatres in the Netherlands: the intimate Caprera. This unique place, built against a sand dune and just a stone’s throw from Haarlem, offers an enticing programme of pop, dance, theatre, cabaret and shows for children from May until September. Keep an eye on the calendar this summer to experience an enchanting evening of culture under the stars.

Zaan Theatre, Zaandam

From cabaret, opera, dance, musicals, concerts and plays to international shows and youth performances, there is something for everyone to experience at this beautiful, modern theatre on the River Zaan. The Zaan Theatre is also one of the home bases for various cultural festivals, including National Theatre Weekend, Children's Book Week and the Toddler Festival. For anyone looking for afternoon matinees, keep an eye on their Tuesday Afternoon series.

Amsterdamse Bostheater, Amstelveen

Concealed between the trees in the middle of the Amsterdamse Bos in Amstelveen, the Amsterdamse Bostheater puts on a wide array of film screenings, concerts and open-air performances. Watch the sunset during the performance, with the last scene always played under the starry sky. The agenda also encompasses youth performances and the Boslab Theater Festival - a location theatre festival by a new generation of theatre makers.