Cinema

If you don’t know it’s there you’d walk right past this small movie theatre. But if you have the chance then just walk right in. This building used to be a police station from 1875. You’ll notice that for sure when you go to the men’s room: it’s in an old cell, still with the original bars! 

There was a renovation in 1916 and nowadays it’s still in that condition. Through a corridor you reach the bar. First thing you’ll notice are the directors chairs in which you can sit to have a drink. It’s a very cozy place with a lot of old movie posters on the wall. 

The theatre itself is tiny but I think that makes the movie experience more real. I prefer this to the big movie complexes you can find anywhere, in every city. There’s only one theatre here so don’t expect a lot of choices. They play mostly classics and independent movies. When you leave, be sure to thank the people working here because they are all volunteers. And movie lovers, of course.

This old building has a rich history. It was built in 1934 as a gigantic cinema (seating over 2000 people) and variety theatre. It has seen all of Belgium’s artists and a whole range of international artists too. However, in 1982 it closed its doors and fell into decay.

In 2003 a group of enthusiastic neighbors started to renovate this amazing building in their spare time. In the beginning, there were only shows in the summer. It was a fun and strange experience enjoying a circus act in the middle of all the rubble. Nowadays, the revue is restored in its original, breathtaking stage.

Whenever I come here to see a show, it feels like I dive into the past, like any minute cancan girls will jump from behind the curtains, being cheered by a baron with a bowler hat and a monocle. In the hall there are fantastic vintage wall paintings and fun house mirrors, such a great laugh! Everybody who works there during the soirees is a volunteer, so be sure to give them a big smile for their efforts.

Check the calendar for shows: this can go from a theatre show over cinema and circus festivals, ballroom dancing nights (don’t be confused, you’ll have to do the dancing yourself!) and even a children’s flea market.