Theater Zuidplein, Rotterdam

An inclusive theatre that fulfills a social function

Zuidplein Theater is the cultural home base for the people from the local area. Rotterdam-Zuid, is often seen as problem area and the development of the “Hart van Zuid” (Heart of the South) plan, which Zuidplein Theater is a part of, aims to transform the area into a pleasant, healthy and sustainable living environment by creating spaces for leisure, work, shopping and encounters with community members. It does this by focusing on a pedestrian environment and the inclusion of green spaces. In that vein, Zuidplein Theater sees it role as a truly public and inclusive place for recreation and education. Programmatically, it strengthens ties with locals by working on projects with community organizations. 
The design of the theatre complex is the vehicle in which these intangible goals and connections can be materialized. While being in the center of the city, the building was cleverly designed so that the noise from pop concerts taking place on the stage of the main auditorium will not disturb quieter adjacent activities that are taking place, for example in the library, which is housed in the same building, or in the homes of neighbouring residences. The reception hall, as meeting place, is a very generous and dynamic space, with the infrastructure to accommodate events. The public square, Annie M. G. Schmidtplein, at the front of the building acts as an extension of this meeting space and acts as invitation to enter the reception hall.

The intimate auditorium (600 seats) has a large stage that can function as a stand-alone pop-venue, with the added luxury of having automated fly bars above the entire surface for their use; truly an exception for such a venue. The small auditorium is suited for music, drama, dance and cross-over. The third auditorium is used for small presentations and show cases. When the glass façade is lifted, this space is integral part of the foyer.

Project