Openluchttheater Caprera Bloemendaal

Beneath the vast, starlit sky of Bloemendaal, nestled between the dunes and the whispering woods, lies Openluchttheater Caprera Bloemendaal. A magical place where nature’s tranquility meets the vibrant energy of performance. Openluchttheater Caprera Bloemendaal first opened its doors in 1948. Originally called Openluchttheater Bloemendaal, it was born from a unique vision. Wethouder Dries van Geluk, the driving force behind its creation, saw the potential in a carved-out sandpit. This sandpit, a byproduct of the region’s housing boom, became the foundation for this iconic outdoor theatre. The theatre’s stage, an impressive 30 meters wide and 15 meters deep, has hosted countless performances under the open sky. Imagine the first performance: “Don Quichot op de bruiloft van Kamacho” by Pieter Langendijk, directed by Louis Saalborn. The year was 1948, and the audience was witnessing the birth of a cultural landmark. The unique setting of Openluchttheater Caprera Bloemendaal, cradled within a dune pan, offers a truly immersive experience. With a seating capacity of 1100, the theatre has witnessed performances ranging from captivating cabaret and soulful pop music to grand classical concerts, theatrical productions, film screenings, and enchanting children’s shows. In 2000, Openluchttheater Caprera Bloemendaal underwent a significant transformation. The architects from ONX, based in Hoofddorp, reimagined the space. The renovation included a striking addition: a polyester canopy gracefully covering the stage. This marked a new chapter in the theatre’s history, and it was renamed simply Caprera. Today, the theatre stands as a testament to its rich history and the enduring power of performance. If you’re lucky enough to be here during the winter months, you might experience the magic of Licht Festival Caprera. The surrounding woods are transformed into a mesmerizing world of light and sound, featuring works by internationally renowned artists. But even outside of festival season, the 40-hectare Wandelpark Caprera, part of the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, welcomes visitors year-round. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the woods, breathe in the fresh air, and let the natural beauty of this place captivate you. Openluchttheater Caprera Bloemendaal is more than just a theatre; it’s a living story, a testament to the power of vision, and a celebration of the arts amidst nature’s embrace.