16 X theaters in Amsterdam that you want to visit (more often) this year

Every year I resolve to go to a beautiful theater in Amsterdam more often! To really keep a closer eye on all the theaters in Amsterdam and what performances are on, I've created this overview for you. Because a night at the theater is truly a night out! Incredibly relaxing and fun, especially if you grab a bite to eat beforehand. At these theaters, stories come to life or you can listen to the best live concerts. In a cosmopolitan city like Amsterdam, there are, of course, plenty of theaters to be found. That's why this overview of 16 of the best theaters in Amsterdam, so you know where to go for your next night out. Read on to discover all about the best theaters in Amsterdam. Also fun: many of these theaters and music venues also offer special programs for families.

IF YOU ARE READY: 𝗺𝗶𝗷𝗻 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘁𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝘁𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘀

As a child, I went there with my parents to shop, and as a teenager and in my twenties, I went clubbing. Now, I love coming here for a weekend escape, filled with good food, great wine bars, and that typical Rotterdam down-to-earth attitude.

Rotterdam is buzzing with creativity and has a real IT-factor. In this mini-guide, I share my favorite hotspots you'll definitely want to know.

📌Book your next trip to Rotterdam.

𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
⦁ @parqiet_parkcafe
⦁ @dunerotterdam
⦁ @wollyaandewaterkant
⦁ @nice.neighbourhood

**Illegible**
⦁ @morganandmees
⦁ @hotelame
⦁ @roommate_bruno
⦁ @thejameshotelrotterdam

𝗡𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦
⦁ North
⦁ Katendrecht
⦁ Dijkzigt (Museum Park)
⦁ Shipping Quarter

I
⦁ Take the Water Taxi
⦁ @boijmans
⦁ Walk & unwind at the Kralingse Plas
⦁ @nlfotomuseum
⦁ Visit @stationbergweg

**
⦁ @tresrotterdam
⦁ @barbertarotterdam
⦁ @hinoki_rotterdam
⦁ @barbistroloevetdie
⦁ @oxrotterdam
⦁ @restaurant_rotonde
⦁ on my to-visit list, the new @lioncitybistro

𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗦
⦁ @walsjerot_nl
⦁ @cafeverward
⦁ @spikizibar
⦁ @lenselinq

💌What's your favorite spot in Rotterdam?

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

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Perhaps the last weekend with ice and snow ⛄️❄️

Are you a cocooner or do you prefer to get outdoors? In our Snowy Amsterdam Guide, I share my favorite winter tips for this weekend in the city.

Save it – because snow days like this are rare 🥰
Do you have any great winter tips for Amsterdam? I'd love to read along!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#snow #amsterdam #winter snow in amsterdam, things to do winter in amsterdam

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First of all: thank you for being here to close out 2025 <3.

2025, you were everything I hoped you would be and more. So many new memories.

I don't yet know what 2026 will bring, but last year was one for the books. Highlights included trips to China, Mexico City, Egypt, and exploring the English countryside.

Entrepreneurs probably recognize that 2025 was not an easy year.
When I started Your Little Black Book, I had one dream: not to work to stay somewhere for free in exchange for content and the pressure of a "picture perfect" experience. But to use my revenue models to book and experience those special places myself, as a guest instead of an influencer, and to give you honest tips.
After almost 15 years of entrepreneurship, I'm so happy with the balance between editorial and commercial work and that I can also say no to things that don't feel right.

At the same time, it's still special that destinations, airlines, and hotels hire me to create a customized Little Black Book for them. I have complete freedom with these campaigns, and I believe in the value of these content-based tips that truly suit your taste. And they come from me personally, not from a machine.
So thank you for your support when you see #yourlbbcollab, #pressstrip or #prinvited ;-).

This will always be my dream job, the one I created almost 15 years ago. I still do as much as possible myself. That's energizing—from both successes and failures.

Luckily, I have a small team that helps with certain sections, and this year we're going through all the tips critically. What's still truly fun, and what's not?

As a leisure expert and queen of curation, I'm so excited to take yourlittleblackbook.me to the next level. Even though being an online entrepreneur requires constant attention and doesn't always come naturally, I wouldn't want anything else.

My mission remains: making your life easier.
So you don't have to search, but can simply choose well.

So glad you were here this year. Without you, there would be no Your Little Black Book 🖤

See you in 2026!

With love,
@anne_de_buck

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I have always been part of the family and have always been proud of my work. I have a nice garden in my garden 🗝️👀

Mark your calendars! Because on January 17th and 18th, Hotel Night returns to Amsterdam with a year-round event packed with health and wellness events, and of course, legendary parties you'll be talking about all year long.

I got a sneak peek at The Art of Balance theme at the luxurious Anantara Krasnapolsky and arranged a similarly special experience for you as a YLBB follower.

And in my opinion:
• overnight stay for 2 people in a luxury room on January 17, 2026
• access to the spa & wellness (subject to availability via the wellness desk)
• pre-dinner cocktail at Bar The Tailor
• fully catered dinner from the chef
• passe-partouts for the Hotel Night parties
• extensive breakfast in the Winter Garden
• participation in unique Ice Experience in Krasnapolsky Summergarden

And in Flanders:
• let us know who you would like to check in with at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky during the Mastercard Hotel Night
• download the Mastercard Hotel Night app where you can see the complete program
• and take a look at @hotelnacht and @anantarakrasnapolsky for the latest updates and to get the fun started!

The winner will be notified on January 5th in a comment from @hotelnacht that I will share in my stories.

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!

Love,
Anne

#hotelnacht #amsterdam #yourlbbcollab #winactie #giveaway

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NEW YEAR 🥰 ~ I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

I'll be sharing more of these kinds of diaries with you in 2026. What a month December was! 🖤 So grateful for all the special moments!

From overcoming stage fright to New York, lots of QT with my boys, and delicious food. We're closing out the year in Egypt, and it's so incredibly beautiful here ☺️.

1 'Coming home' to NY, this city continues to surprise 🗽

No fancy dinners this time, but a week full of street food, handrolls, slices, and wine bars. 🍕

3 A bizarre end to the trip and another experience richer 🫣

4 Just in time to present the Entree Award for 'best new luxury hotel'. ✨ Overcoming stage fright: CHECK!

One of the best hospitality parties of the year: the Entree Awards. Luckily, we still have the photos. 📸

6, 7, 8 Date night at the always delicious Café Caron, the newly opened Char-d (also recommended) and the snacky dinner that I had been craving for months 😅

9-night hotel preview at Anantara Krasnapolsky and the best night out in your own city. TIP: There's a fantastic giveaway coming up that you won't want to miss. 👀

Note to self: visit a hotel spa more often for the ultimate luxury experience, such as at Anantara Krasnapolsky Amsterdam.

11 Emily in Paris & Cheese Fondue 🫕. What do you think of the new season?

12 AMS rounds with lunch at De Willem & wine and pate en croute at Twee Prinsen 🍷

13 Our Christmas tradition: the World Christmas Circus in Carré 🎪

Manuel's 14th Best Idea: Everyone Had to Hand in Their Phones at Christmas 📵

15 Early Christmas with the fam, and yes I made the viral shrimp tower 🦐

16 EGYPT, here we come! 🛩️

17 Felucca & magical sunset in Luxor ☀️

Christmas gift for the whole family: checked into my dream hotel in Luxor. 🗝️

Bucket list 19: Hot Air Balloon in Luxor. 🔥

20 This is what I call alfresco dining 😍

PS: I love this age of traveling together, a big boy full of fun ideas, but still sweet and small at the same time 🥰

It's crazy to think that the year is almost over, but I'm really looking forward to 2026 and everything that's to come.

I hope you had some nice days too 🖤.

✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck

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Merry Christmas 🎄❤️
I wish you very happy days.
Curious about what you're going to do today ✨.
✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck

PS: Who recognizes this Christmas tree? 👀

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Comment WEEKEND for the full guide.🎄

I hope your OOO is on, your plans for the festive season are set, and that you're going to enjoy some wonderful days ahead.

If you need more tips, yourlittleblackbook.me is packed with listicles for Christmas and NYE.

From the best delicacy shops for your groceries to last-minute dinner tables and events.

Maybe you're traveling for the holidays? I would love to hear where you're headed.

For now: happy holidays! I'll check in with you next week from Egypt, where I'm adventuring with my family, chasing mummies and pyramids.

ALL THE LOVE,
ANNE

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The Christmas holidays are coming and we have collected the best tips for kids (and parents 😉) for you.

From winter getaways in Amsterdam to great family-friendly tips throughout the Netherlands: you'll find them all in our complete Christmas holiday guides.

Think of Christmas markets, winter events, ice skating rinks, light art and quality time together.

In 𝗬𝗟𝗕𝗕'𝘀 𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝘃𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗲 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 on 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.𝗺𝗲 I have bundled everything for you: from Amsterdam to the best tips throughout the Netherlands.

Countdown: we're off to Egypt for a week soon ☀️, but I've deliberately planned it so we can also fully enjoy all the winter events and outings here. The best of both worlds.

In the guides you will find, among other things:

In the evenings
– Winter outings in Amsterdam, from light art to Christmas markets
– Family-proof events throughout the Netherlands
- Many tips that are also fun in cold or rainy weather

𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 & 𝗙𝗨𝗡
– Cozy winter markets for hot chocolate and mulled wine
– Ice rink, circuses, shows and light festivals
– Outings that are just as fun with the whole family as one-on-one with your child

Of course, this is just a sample of everything there is to do.
Do you want the complete overview?
I have always wanted to make a nice gift to you 🖤

And I'm curious: what do you have planned for this holiday?

I hope you have a great time together!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊 Anne de Buck

#yourlittleblackbook #christmasholiday #christmasholidaytips #kidsproof #familytimewintervibes

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I hope this summer you have a nice summer day and a nice bouquet of flowers! 🎄

Send a message right away to that one friend with whom you want to have one this weekend.

𝗭𝘂𝗶𝗱-𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱
– Royal Christmas Fair – The Hague (until December 23) @royalchristmasfairthehague
– Winter Wonder Weeks – Leiden (12–14 & 18–21 Dec)
– Green Christmas Market – Rotterdam (12–14 Dec)
– Dordrecht December Days Christmas Market – Dordrecht (13–14 Dec)
– Rotterdam Harvest Christmas Edition – Rotterdam (13 & 20 Dec)

𝗚𝗲𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱
– Winter Festival Zutphen – Zutphen (14 Dec)

𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗴
– Christmas Town Valkenburg – Valkenburg (until January 4)

𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗷𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗹
– Christmas Market Delden – Delden (13 Dec)
– Dickens Festival – Deventer (13–14 Dec)
– (H)onest Christmas Market – Deventer (13–14 Dec)

𝗡𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗱-𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱
– Museumplein Christmas Market – Amsterdam (until December 28)
– Haarlem Christmas Market – Haarlem (12–14 Dec)
– Funky Xmas Sunday Market – Amsterdam (21 Dec)
– Winter Market Pure Markt – Amsterdam (21 Dec)

𝗨𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁
– Winter Market Molen de Ster – Utrecht (13–14 Dec)
– The Utrecht Winter Spectacle – Utrecht (Dec. 18–Jan. 4)
Have fun! There's nothing quite like spontaneous plans in December.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊 @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #christmasmarketnetherlands #christmasmarkets2025 christmasmarketamsterdam christmasmarketthehague christmasoutings thingstodointhenetherlands

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𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟭, 𝟭𝟮, 𝟭𝟯 & 𝟭𝟰)

Another cozy December weekend is here, and the city is buzzing with winter vibes.

Think festive markets, Light Festival strolls, Christmas concerts, new food hotspots, ice skating, and QT with friends or family.

In this week's Amsterdam Weekend Guide, I've rounded up 40 things to do!

Here's a sneak peek — comment WEEKEND for the full guide or check the link in bio.

𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗦 𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘
– A magical Christmas concert at Het Concertgebouw (Dec 13)
– Bric & Brac Christmas Market at De Willem (Dec 14)
– The always lovely Museumplein Christmas Market — perfect for snacks & winter vibes

𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 & 𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗦
– NEW: Yubu Bento — your new inari go-to in the city center
– NEW: Wonton — dumpling heaven just landed in West
– Do the @lefoodwalk during Amsterdam Light Festival: 10.000 steps, art, street food, oysters & cocktails
– More into sit-down dinners? Book an early or late table with @lefoodwalk

𝗙𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗬 𝗙𝗨𝗡
– Poffertjes Sunday at @hetblauwetheehuis (Dec 14) — always a good idea
– Circus Zanzara is back at Westergas with The Art of Making Art — fun for all ages

And this is just a taste of all 40 tips in this week's guide.

Want the full list with all events and new places to check out?

🖤 ​​Comment WEEKEND and I'll send the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide straight to your DMs, or hit the link in bio.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊 @anne_de_buck

#amsterdam #amsterdamweekendguide #amsterdamtips #amsterdamcity

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**Illegible text** 👀
This is the coolest new hotel for a night away! Meet @viaantwerp, Antwerp's newest boutique hotel on the border of Zurenborg and Borgerhout (yep, voted the 2nd coolest neighborhood in the world by Time Out).

I recently stayed at this gem, and it truly has it all: a lively bar with a cozy atmosphere, walls adorned with creative art, beautiful, bright rooms, and it's within walking distance of great hotspots. And I haven't even mentioned @mea.antwerp! The delightful restaurant, helmed by a chef who previously worked at The Palomar in London. If you know, you know!

And now the best news:
I can surprise one of you with a dream night away at VIA Antwerp. 💛

And in my opinion
• Overnight stay for 2 people
• Breakfast included
• Chef's Dinner at MEA

And in Flanders
• Let us know in the comments which friend you would like to stay here with
• Of course, take a look at @viaantwerp & @mea.antwerp to dream away and follow their updates

The winner will be notified personally via DM on December 10th.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you and will soon share a mini guide with more great tips for Antwerp! 🖤

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#antwerp #antwerp #zurenborg #antwerpcity #borgerhout

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HAPPY ALMOST WEEKEND IN AMSTERDAM

Comment 'weekend' and I'll send you all 32 tips in the new Amsterdam Weekend Guide for December 4, 5, 6 & 7 ✖️✖️✖️

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16 X theaters in Amsterdam that you want to visit (more often) this year

Royal Theater Carré

The Royal Theatre Carré is undoubtedly Amsterdam's most famous theater. Ideally situated on the Amstel River, the theater combines culture with nature and history. Its exclusive programming includes performances in every genre, from cabaret to international operas and circus. The Royal Theatre Carré offers its visitors an unforgettable and magical experience, and it's every actor's, singer's, and theatregoer's dream to perform in this iconic building.
Amstel 115, Amsterdam – carre.nl

ROYAL THEATRE CARRÉ

International Theatre Amsterdam (ITA)

The International Theatre Amsterdam, formerly known as the Stadsschouwburg (City Theatre), is a unique building on Leidseplein. ITA has a rich history and has become one of Amsterdam's leading cultural centers. Its program includes performances by both established international stars and emerging talent. ITA also boasts an impressive cast of actors who will surprise you with spectacular performances. The International Theatre Amsterdam is a magical place where audiences witness the best of Dutch performing arts.
Leidseplein 26, Amsterdam – ita.nl

© International Theater Amsterdam (ITA)

The Little Comedy

De Kleine Komedie has been around for over 200 years. Amsterdam's oldest theater, founded in 1786, remains one of the city's finest venues. Originally focused on cabaret (hence the name De Kleine Komedie), it is primarily known among comedians. However, today the venue caters to a wider audience. Major Dutch artists like Hans Teeuwen and Brigitte Kaandorp regularly perform there, and emerging talent is also given a chance.
Amstel 56, Amsterdam – dekleinekomedie.nl

© The Little Comedy

More theaters in Amsterdam to visit this year

The concert building

The unparalleled acoustics make the Concertgebouw one of Amsterdam's most important and popular theaters. The building is among the absolute world leaders, and this has already led to countless legendary concerts. Richard Strauss, Louis Armstrong, and Sting are just a few of the names that have performed here. The Concertgebouw pays close attention to its programming and atmosphere. Every concert is of exceptional quality and well worth your time.
Concertgebouwplein 10, Amsterdam – concertgebouw.nl

© The Concertgebouw

DeLaMar

A visit to DeLaMar is a truly special experience. In this beautiful theater, every story is presented in a vibrant way, making each performance a unique experience. After the show, you can enjoy a drink and a snack in the foyers while admiring the unique photo collections. DeLaMar is a theater where quality is paramount. The program includes the best musicals, plays, and comedies. Moreover, the theater is a project of the VandenEnde Foundation. This cultural fund supports the development of emerging talent and regularly gives young people the opportunity to showcase their skills to the public.
Marnixstraat 402, Amsterdam – delamar.nl

© DeLaMar

DeLaMar West

In Bos en Lommer, you'll find the new DeLaMar West theater. This venue focuses primarily on talent development, especially in the musical genre. The performances are mostly contemporary musical productions by promising artists. A great feature is that many of the performances were developed specifically for DeLaMar West. Furthermore, the theater is a welcoming meeting place where numerous educational and cultural activities are organized.
Laan Van Spartaan 4, Amsterdam – delamar.nl

© DeLaMar West

Amsterdam Forest Theatre

Watching a captivating play under the stars has a certain magic. At the Amsterdamse Bostheater, you can experience this all summer long. This cultural gem in the Amsterdamse Bos is the perfect place to enjoy concerts, film nights, and theater performances. The program includes both exclusive productions and works by renowned companies. After the performance, you can relax with a delicious drink or a leisurely dinner at the Summer Terrace.
The Duizendmeterweg 7, Amsterdam – bostheater.nl

© Amsterdamse Bostheater

the best theaters in Amsterdam to visit this year

Scala Foodbar & Theater

A unique concept you definitely have to try. Scala Foodbar & Theater organizes 20-minute performances. All genres are covered, from cabaret to mini-concerts and stand-up comedians. You choose which performances you want to see and you can easily catch several in one evening. You can also enjoy delicious tapas and cocktails before, during, or after the cultural activities. A great idea if you're looking for something different!
Van Hallstraat 286, Amsterdam – scala-amsterdam.nl

Dutch National Opera & Ballet

A ballet or opera performance is a unique and breathtaking experience. In the semicircular hall of the Dutch National Opera and Ballet, the entire audience has an exceptional view of the performance, allowing you to be immediately absorbed by the captivating story. The Dutch National Opera & Ballet Building presents performances of international stature. It is one of the most important institutions in Amsterdam's cultural life. After the show, you can relax with a drink in one of the many foyers with a stunning view of the Amstel River.
Amstel 3, Amsterdam – operaballet.nl

© National Opera & Ballet

Boom Chicago

Tourists often talk about Boom Chicago. This theater showcases the best English-language comedy shows. The dynamic performances are a blend of live music, dry humor, and sharp improvisation. The talented cast is brimming with talent, and their performances are legendary. Boom Chicago has built an incredible reputation over the past 25 years and has hosted numerous international stars. The theater is the ideal setting for a fun and relaxing evening in vibrant Amsterdam.

Meervaart Theater

A visit to the theater is an educational experience that offers many new insights. Theater de Meervaart recognizes the importance of theater to society and aims to give Amsterdammers the opportunity to develop their cultural skills. This spacious venue in Amsterdam-West therefore offers a highly varied program. Besides performances by top-tier artists, you can also see local cabaret artists. Furthermore, Theater de Meervaart offers activities for young people, helping them to fully develop their theatrical talent.

© Meervaart Theater

Music building on the IJ

The Amsterdam concert hall par excellence is undoubtedly the Muziekgebouw aan het IJ. With its beautiful location on the banks of the IJ and its modern architecture, the building is an impressive sight. The concert hall aims to inspire all Amsterdammers and therefore offers a highly varied program. The acoustics can be adapted to the type of music, and various seating arrangements are possible. The combination of these unique features with a daring program makes the Muziekgebouw aan het IJ one of the best theaters in Amsterdam.

© Music Building on the IJ

More theaters in Amsterdam to visit this year

Flemish Cultural House de Brakke Grond

The Flemish Cultural Center De Brakke Grond presents innovative Flemish art to Amsterdam. Founded in 1981, the theater is funded by the Flemish government. Its program encompasses all art forms, from literature and theater to music and dance. De Brakke Grond's goal is to promote Flemish identity. Through various collaborations, they foster cultural ties between the two countries and help Flemish talent develop their careers in the Netherlands.

Theater Bellevue

Theater Bellevue has become a household name in the Amsterdam theater world. Each of its three halls has its own programming, attracting a wide audience. The Main Hall is the most versatile space, hosting dance performances, puppet shows, and plays. Klein Bellevue focuses on cabaret and cabaret. During your lunch break, head to the Paloni Hall. This space hosts the Bellevue Lunch Theater, a venue for emerging talent with a contemporary perspective on theatrical repertoire.

© Theater Bellevue

Vondelpark Open Air Theater

Every Amsterdammer immediately thinks of the Vondelpark Open Air Theatre in the summer. This beautiful park hosts concerts, family theatre, dance performances, and other shows all summer long. And the park does all of this completely free of charge. This wonderful concept attracts over 100.000 people annually. Not surprising, considering that many well-known names also make appearances. In the past, Freek de Jonge and Willeke Alberti, for example, have performed there free of charge.

© Vondelpark Open Air Theatre

Theatre De Krakeling

Theater De Krakeling is the ideal day out for the whole family. This youth theater's performances are geared towards younger audiences. The program includes shows for all ages. During performances, the theater challenges young people to see the world differently. Through puppet shows, dance performances, and theatrical performances, they bring the most captivating stories to life. After the performances, children can have a blast in the adjacent Westerpark.