“Ten by Ten” echoes in my mind. That’s the name of a compilation of short plays. The English Comedy Club proudly presented it at The Warehouse Studio Theatre in April 2024.
Welcome to The Warehouse Studio Theatre. It is more than just a building. It’s a testament to community spirit and the love of theatre in Brussels.
In 1994, three theatre groups joined forces. The American Theatre Company, the English Comedy Club, and the Irish Theatre Group bought this complex. Today, it’s known as The Warehouse. It stands at Rue Waelhem 69A in Schaerbeek.
The Warehouse Studio Theatre houses many things. There is a club room for socializing. Two rehearsal rooms allow actors to practice. A workshop enables set construction. There is also a props room, a costume room, and storage space for sets. The groups even bought the ceramics workshop next door. They transformed it into a 65-seat studio theatre. Or 60-seat according to some.
These three groups formed CAST. That’s the Co-operative Association to Support Theatre. CAST meets monthly. They discuss management and maintenance. Generous donations have helped maintain the property since 1994. Over 360,000 euros have been donated.
The first American Theatre Company production was in February 1997. They presented two one-act plays. One was “Aunt Ruth” by Steve McGiffen. It won the 1996 ATC Play Writing Competition. The other was “Haiku” by Katherine Snodgrass.
Since then, The Warehouse Studio Theatre has captivated audiences. “Night Mother” and “The Four Wheelers” are among the notable plays. The latter won the 1998 ATC Playwriting Competition. The “Sponsor-a-Chair” campaign was successful too. It resulted in 65 new chairs for the studio theatre. Each chair has a plaque with the sponsor’s name.
The Warehouse is the beating heart of community theatre in Brussels. Over 30 years, it has hosted over 200 productions. It has also provided a venue for youth theatre. English-speaking improv in Brussels started here. Greek, Spanish, and multilingual theatre groups have performed here too.
The Warehouse is self-funded. It receives no grants or subsidies. Dedicated volunteers maintain and run it. It stands as a testament to the power of community. Like-minded individuals came together. They created something special.
Getting here is easy. Public transport is recommended. Parking is limited. Metered parking is in effect until 9 p.m. every day except Sundays and holidays. Verboekhoven and Demolder are nearby stops. The theatre is near Lidl.
So, as you stand before The Warehouse Studio Theatre, remember its history. Think of the countless actors, writers, and volunteers who have brought stories to life within these walls. The Warehouse is not just a theatre. It’s a community. It’s a place where dreams take center stage.