The Théâtre du Vaudeville is a hidden treasure in the heart of the legendary Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. This emblematic 19thᵉ century address, famous for its opulent gilding and majestic chandeliers, is now one of Brussels’ most sophisticated event venues. But behind this neo-renaissance building lies an unexpected story of nocturnal madness and radical metamorphoses.
This iconic venue is the ideal place for rare and intimate cultural experiences, where the atmosphere becomes magical and timeless, the architecture magnified only by the soft, bewitching glow of Candlelight concerts.
Table Of Contents
- The history of the Théâtre du Vaudeville
- Why is this theater so exuberant?
- Which celebrities and famous shows have performed here?
- What's the program at the Théâtre du Vaudeville?
- Where is it and how do I get there?
- The secret of a successful event: luxury catering
- What is vaudeville?
- Vaudeville, from Brussels to Paris
The history of the Théâtre du Vaudeville
Born in 1847 as a simple Marché aux Fleurs under architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaer‘s majestic glass roof, the site quickly evolved. Faced with limited commercial success, it was transformed into a popular café-chant under the name of Casino Saint-Hubert in 1851. At the time, the atmosphere was legendary, combining entertainment with uninhibited consumption. It wasn’t until 1884 that it took on the title of Théâtre du Vaudeville, devoting itself to comedies of intrigue, but retaining its festive spirit.
Why is this theater so exuberant?
Le Vaudeville’sexuberance lies in the violent contrast between its high-flying décor and its perpetual use as a place of festive debauchery. Architecturally, the venue is an explosion of richness: it dazzles with its neo-realist décor, domed ceiling and Art Deco floral motifs in the lobby, all of which bear witness to the 1926 renovations. Initially, this venue served as a backdrop for libertine plays and operettas.
But it was its nightlife that sealed its unique character: from 1974 to 1994, when it was transformed into a famous nightclub, exuberance reached its peak. The designer at the time, Yannick Ravet, reinvented the place by creating a spectacular crown-shaped dance floor that dominated the bar, in a spirit worthy of Saturday Night Fever.
Which celebrities and famous shows have performed here?
Le Vaudeville has had a profound impact on the cultural history of Brussels. The building has hosted some memorable shows, including the legendary Bossemans et Coppenolle in 1938, an iconic piece of Brussels humor. It has also seen French-speaking entertainment legends such as Parisian icon Juliette Gréco and French comedians Bourvil, Raymond Devos and Fernand Raynaud tread its boards. These figures from the world of theater and song bear witness to the prestige of this venue dedicated to popular theater and humor.
What’s the program at the Théâtre du Vaudeville?
The Théâtre du Vaudeville no longer functions as a performance venue with a daily program. Its program focuses on prestigious private events, such as gala dinners, cocktail parties and conferences. Its versatility is ensured by sliding seats that conceal the parterre, transforming the hall into a unique modular stage.
This programming is complemented by exceptional cultural events: the hall hosts the famous Candlelight concerts, which offer musical tributes by candlelight, offering a magical, intimate experience in this luxurious setting.
Where is it and how do I get there?
The Théâtre du Vaudeville enjoys an exceptional location, nestled in the heart of the Galeries Saint-Hubert, at Galerie de la Reine 13, 1000 Brussels.
Access is easy, as it’s right in the center of the city, just a few minutes’ walk from the Grand-Place. If you’re using public transport, the Central Station is the most convenient point of entry: it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the theater. Metro lines 1 and 5 converge here, ensuring quick and easy connections from anywhere in the capital.
The secret of a successful event: luxury catering
The prestige of the Théâtre du Vaudeville extends right down to the plate. As the venue is dedicated to high-end events, it has surrounded itself with exceptional gastronomic partners. To guarantee sumptuous banquets and refined buffets when the space is privatized, Le Vaudeville works with renowned caterers such as Choux de Bruxelles and Witlof. This choice guarantees not only top-quality cuisine, but also staging and service that rival the splendor of the decor.
What is vaudeville?
The term “vaudeville” (derived from “Voix-de-Ville”) refers to a theatrical genre described as light and popular, characterized by a comedy of intrigue, quiproquos and burlesque situations. It also incorporates numerous songs, well-known arias or verses that punctuate the action. This genre, which enjoyed its golden age in the XIXᵉ century, is synonymous with light-hearted entertainment and was distinguished from drama by its light tone, much sought after by the Brussels and Parisian bourgeoisie.
Vaudeville, from Brussels to Paris
It’s fascinating to note that the vaudeville phenomenon spread to all capital cities. While Paris’ Théâtre du Vaudeville was an icon of the Grands Boulevards, Brussels’ developed its own character, strongly linked to the local spirit of the “zwanze ” and the majestic setting of the Galeries Royales. This sharing of names testifies to the European importance of this theatrical genre in the XIXᵉ century, positioning the Brussels venue as an essential reference for entertainment in Belgium.
Other Treasures : Prestigious neighboring venues in Brussels
Once you’ve visited the Théâtre du Vaudeville, the Belgian capital invites you to continue your quest for prestige. Just a few minutes’ walk away, you’ll find yourself in the historic heart of the Grand-Place, where theHôtel de Ville and the Maison du Roi bear witness to the city’s medieval history.
In Brussels, many exceptional addresses are united by the privilege of hosting unique events. The Steigenberger Wiltcher’s, for example, is one of the luxury venues that, like the Vaudeville, opens its doors to Candlelight Concerts. These sublime stages are transformed into magical shows, where the softness of candlelight magnifies the architecture of Brussels.