City continues to work on the future vision for Stadsschouwburg: “New building must give oxygen to culture” (Antwerp)

The city of Antwerp has commissioned further research into the future of the Stadsschouwburg on the current site on Theaterplein. Two years ago it was decided that the concrete colossus on the square would be demolished.

Six years ago, mayor Bart De Wever (N-VA) announced that he wanted to say goodbye to the Stadsschouwburg. “Because I think that is such an ugly building in the heart of the city.” Two years ago, the city council officially decided to demolish the Stadsschouwburg and build a new complex at another location. Renovating the building was not an option, it is full of concrete rot and that would result in a bill worth millions.

The Stadsschouwburg currently comprises three program clusters: the large theater hall program with two thousand seats and supporting infrastructure, the HETPALEIS program (the performing arts center for children and young people) and the Royal Ballet School Antwerp program. There is another parking lot underground.

Various preliminary studies have been completed in recent years. These results are now being built upon further. “We are now taking the first extremely important steps towards a bright new future for this site,” said Alderman of Urban Development Annick De Ridder (N-VA). “The combination of a prime location in the city and cultural programs requires careful research.”

Oxygen to culture

For example, it will be examined whether a public-private partnership can be set up for a new construction solution at the current location or at a new location. Based on this, an investigation will be started for a new location of all partners at the current and possible new location.

A repurposing study is also being initiated for the Theaterplein site and an impact analysis is being organized for the demolition of the current theater. All this should lead to the development of a future vision for the Stadsschouwburg and the Theaterplein site.

“Unfortunately, the Stadsschouwburg has never been a worthy theater, and certainly not for our proud Scheldt city,” says De Wever. “The brutal, cold concrete also does not fit with the lively, bustling neighborhood. I am sure that many Antwerp residents will be happy that the building as we know it will disappear. Its place must be replaced by a sustainable and modern building that gives oxygen to culture.”