If you fancy a fancy night out in a fancy theater, I recommend you go to the Koninklijke Vlaamse Schouwburg (KVS, Royal Flemish Theatre). The KVS is a place for classic and experimental theatre, poetry, music, documentaries and expositions. A Brussels classic. I’ve had some great evenings here.
The KVS actually comprises two performance auditoria – the BOL and the BOX – in two beautiful buildings that lie just next to each other.
The biggest auditorium is the circular BOL and is found in the historical 19th century theatre building (Lakensestraat 146). From the outside, it looks slightly like an Asian pagoda where theatre-believers come to worship their gods and sacrifice their free time. The facade is magnificent, but the old foyer inside (where you can have a drink after the performance) is a must-see-and-be as well!
In a more modern structure with a partly transparent facade (Arduinkaai 9), you’ll find the smaller square BOX auditorium and the Congo Café where you can have a drink or lunch during the week.
Although the KVS originated as a Flemish house of culture, do not let language barriers keep you away: there will always be simultaneous surtitles in at least one other language and some productions will even be performed in French, English, Arabic, etc. Good news as well for those who are legally considered to be young: when you’re under 26 you get a considerable ticket discount!
