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A theatre for the future TEXT: ELLA PUT | PHOTOS: DONKERUTRECHT.NL
It is show time once again for the Stadsschouwburg in Utrecht. After two years of renovating, the theatre will draw open its curtains this month and offer the public a renewed cultural experience, presenting a diverse programme in a modernised building that is ready for the future. Built in the early 1940s by the famous Dutch architect Willem Dudok, the Stadsschouwburg in Utrecht has always been one of the city’s highlights. Named a National Monument in 2009, the theatre is situated on the edge of the city centre. Whether you go there to admire its modern architecture, to see a show or to visit the annual Dutch Film Festival Gala, you will be guaranteed an exciting experience as the theatre has presented its 200,000 annual visitors with a varied cultural programme ever since it opened 75 years ago. 24 | Issue 25 | January 2016
With performances in two halls, the theatre has something for everyone, from family musicals, dramas, music gigs and opera, and it has a special focus on youth theatre and cabaret. “But to keep serving our broad audience, the necessary changes had to be made. The theatre needed to become future-proof,” says manager of the theatre’s information and sales department, Ab Hooijer. “From changing the seats in the big theatre hall, the Douwe Egbertszaal, to bringing in more light in the foyer, we started to renovate everything step-by-step.” For more than two years, the largest theatre in the centre of Holland underwent a major makeover. During those years visitors could still enjoy the delights of a night out at the Schouwburg, because the redecoration was done in sections. Now, shows can be enjoyed in the refurbished
theatre halls. The Douwe Egbertszaal currently has more comfortable chairs and extra leg room and in the Blauwe Zaal, the theatre’s smaller hall, the stage was turned by a quarter to the left for more play room and better contact with the audience. On 4 January the renovated Stadsschouwburg will officially open its doors to the public. With a restyled restaurant overlooking the city’s urban canals, visitors can enjoy the eatery’s extensive opening hours, large menu and speedy Wi-Fi. With these renovation works completed, the theatre is back on track and ready for the future. Hooijer: “We want to give our public a nice night out, offering great hospitality in a renewed and welcoming atmosphere.” www.stadsschouwburg-utrecht.nl