American Theater to become Flemish cultural hub in Brussels
The historic American Theater in Brussels is set to be transformed into a Flemish cultural hub, following the Flemish government’s acquisition of a 99-year leasehold on the landmark building. Flemish ministers for culture and Brussels, Caroline Gennez (Vooruit) and Cieltje Van Achter (N-VA), announced the plans on Wednesday during a visit to the former Expo 58 and VRT building.
The leasehold transfer was approved earlier this week by the Brussels city council. The ministers said they see major potential for the site in Ossegem Park in Laeken, near the Flemish municipalities of Meise, Grimbergen and Vilvoorde.
Built for Expo 58 on the Heysel plateau, the American Theater was later used by public broadcaster VRT for recordings and productions until the building was vacated in 2012. It has stood empty ever since.
© BELGA VIDEO ERIC LALMAND
According to the Flemish government, the neglected site is now to be redeveloped into a “Flemish cultural breeding ground in Brussels”. A feasibility study found significant potential for the building, although major renovation works will first be required.
The cabinet of Gennez is investing more than 2.5 million euros annually in phases to revive the site. In the meantime, the government plans to open the building for temporary use, allowing organisations to test possible functions and partnerships before long-term decisions are made.
“Major decisions regarding investments for renovation can only be taken after that phase,” the ministers said.
“That narrative must be artistically strong, but also future-oriented and economically viable. In the long term, the building could offer space for auditoriums, rehearsal and production spaces, studios, residencies, public functions and hospitality, among other things, and serve as a home for artistic and economic partners,” Gennez and Van Achter said.
Van Achter said the site “has everything to grow into a vibrant Flemish cultural hub in our capital”, adding that the project would be developed “step by step” through temporary use, further research and partnerships.
#FlandersNewsService American Theater in Brussels | © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND
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