Theater De Lievekamp

In the heart of Oss, a city in the province of North Brabant, Netherlands, stands a beacon of culture and entertainment – Theater De Lievekamp. Since its grand opening on September 20, 1968, this theatre has been a cornerstone of the local arts scene, offering a diverse array of performances and events that captivate audiences of all ages.

The Birth of a Cultural Hub

The idea for Theater De Lievekamp was conceived in the late 1950s, driven by the vision of the Ossche Industrieele Kring, led by Dr. Saal van Zwanenberg. The aim was to create a modern theatre that would not only enrich the cultural landscape of Oss but also attract a more diverse and skilled workforce to the city. This vision led to the establishment of Stichting Sociaal Cultureel Centrum De Lievekamp in 1962. With financial contributions from the municipality, the national government, and a substantial donation from the Ossche Industrieele Kring, the construction of the theatre began in 1966, under the architectural expertise of Cees Geenen from the firm Oskam & Geenen.

The theatre's opening was marked by a concert from Het Brabants Orkest, setting a high standard for the quality of performances that would follow. Under the leadership of its first director, Theo Appels, Theater De Lievekamp quickly became a beloved venue for both professional and amateur performances.

A Stage for All

Throughout the 1970s, Theater De Lievekamp gained national recognition through the broadcasts of the Ted Show, hosted by Ted de Braak. These broadcasts, which took place from 1978 to 1984, brought the theatre into the living rooms of people across the country, solidifying its reputation as a premier entertainment venue. The theatre's stage has been graced by a myriad of performers, from local amateur groups to renowned artists such as Henk van Ulsen, Ellen Vogel, Adèle Bloemendaal, and André Rieu.

Evolution and Expansion

The theatre has continually evolved to meet the changing needs and tastes of its audience. In 1988, Ruud Raaijmakers took over as director, shifting the focus towards more professional performances, including operas, ballets, and musicals. This era saw the theatre host productions like My Fair Lady and Anatevka, further enhancing its reputation.

In recent years, the theatre has embarked on an ambitious renovation and expansion project, with costs estimated at 60 million euros. A unique aspect of this project is the relocation of the Zuiderstrandtheater from Scheveningen to Oss, which will serve as the new main hall of De Lievekamp. The existing main hall will be retained and repurposed as a mid-sized venue. This new hall is expected to open by the end of 2025, promising an even more versatile and state-of-the-art facility for future performances.

A Space for Every Occasion

Theater De Lievekamp boasts three distinct theatre halls, each with its own unique capacity and technical capabilities. The Grote Zaal, with a seating capacity of 650, is perfect for large-scale productions and events. The Rabo Zaal, featuring a retractable grandstand, can accommodate between 250 and 400 people, making it ideal for a variety of setups. The Marag Zaal, the smallest of the three, offers an intimate setting for up to 40 guests, perfect for smaller performances and gatherings.

In addition to the theatre halls, De Lievekamp features several public spaces, including a Theatre Café and multiple foyers – the Artiestenfoyer, the Rechte Foyer, and the Ronde Foyer. These spaces are not only used for audience members to mingle and enjoy refreshments but also serve as venues for artists and business events.

Programming for All Tastes

Theatre De Lievekamp prides itself on a diverse programming schedule, offering something for everyone. From cabaret and dance to jazz, musical theatre, and more, the theatre's calendar is packed with performances that cater to a wide range of tastes and interests. One of the theatre's standout initiatives is Theater van de Stad, a socially-oriented program that seeks to connect with the various neighborhoods and villages in Oss, fostering community engagement and collaboration.

The Legacy of Poppentheater Marag

One of the theatre's most cherished traditions is the Poppentheater Marag, which began in the early 1970s in the basement of De Lievekamp. Founded by Margriet Pullens-Ziegler and Agnes Huygen-Lohman, this puppet theatre became a beloved fixture, known for its handmade puppets and charming performances. In 2013, Theater De Lievekamp took over the activities of Poppentheater Marag, ensuring that this delightful tradition would continue to enchant audiences for years to come. During their 40th anniversary celebration, Margriet and Agnes were honored with an Osje van Verdienste by the mayor, recognizing their significant contributions to the cultural life of Oss.

Theater De Lievekamp is more than just a theatre; it is a cultural institution that has played a vital role in the life of Oss for over half a century. With its rich history, diverse programming, and commitment to community engagement, it continues to be a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a fan of the performing arts or simply looking for a memorable night out, Theater De Lievekamp offers an experience that is sure to delight and inspire.