Performances
Performances in Amsterdam: Theater, opera, dance and cabaret. On Amsterdam Now you'll find an up-to-date list of performances in Amsterdam - from opera and ballet to theater, cabaret, dance and comedy.
The city's performing arts offerings cover a wide range: from spoken theater and cabaret to modern dance and opera. As such, Amsterdam has one of the richest theater scenes in the Netherlands, with performances at every level and for every audience. For a current program and tickets, see the amsterdam agenda on Amsterdam Now.
Opera and ballet
The National Opera & Ballet on Waterlooplein is the permanent home of both national opera and national ballet, housed in the same building as Amsterdam's City Hall. Programming ranges from classical repertoire to contemporary productions and international guest performances. Reservations are almost always required, especially for the more renowned productions. See also art and culture Amsterdam on Amsterdam Now for more information on this segment.
Drama and theater
Amsterdam has a wide range of theater companies and venues. Internationaal Theater Amsterdam programs large-scale repertory theater, often with international appeal. Frascati and Theater Bellevue focus on smaller-scale and innovative work, with a focus on young creators and experimental forms. DeLaMar puts on big musicals and popular productions for a wide audience. For a current list of all amsterdam performances, see the amsterdam agenda on Amsterdam Now.
Cabaret and comedy
Cabaret has a permanent home in Amsterdam. De Kleine Komedie is the traditional address for cabaret performers, with programming that runs throughout the week. Boom Chicago, active in the city for decades, performs English-language improv comedy for an international audience. In addition to its permanent venues, there are regular stand-up nights at cafes, smaller theaters and alternative venues throughout the city. Also check out the amsterdam agenda on Amsterdam Now for current dates and tickets.
Dance
In addition to the National Ballet, Amsterdam has an active scene for modern dance and dance theater. The Muziektheater and smaller venues such as Frascati and the International Choreographic Arts Centre regularly program dance performances by national and international companies. In doing so, dance increasingly overlaps with theater, music and visual arts.
Practical
Tickets for popular performances in Amsterdam sell out quickly, especially for premieres and well-known companies. Booking ahead through the venue's website is the most reliable route. Some venues offer last-minute discounts on the night itself. The complete overview of performances in Amsterdam, including practical info and current programming, can be found via the amsterdam performances section on Amsterdam Now.