Theatre Royal du Parc (Royal Park Theatre), Brussels

While stage productions at this theatre are exclusively in French, a visit is well worth it for its sheer architectural beauty. The building dates back to 1782 and stands on the periphery of Brussels Park, facing the Parliament building. Originally established as both a drama school and a performance space for young actors, it initially provided them with a platform to hone their skills before graduating to the esteemed Royal Theatre of La Monnaie.

The theater has a rich history with various incarnations over the years. It has hosted vaudeville, comedies, opera, operetta, and classical productions by Parisian and Dutch actors. During Napoleon's reign from 1807 to 1814, a decree limited performances to a predetermined number of venues, which resulted in the theater being dark during this period. In World War I, it became the entertainment hub for German troops occupying the country. It wasn't until after World War I that the theater began to solidify its Belgian identity. Over time, it has undergone multiple renovations, including a significant overhaul in 2000. Fortunately, these renovations have preserved the building's exquisite architectural features.

Presently, the theater primarily features French burlesques and twentieth-century classics, including works by playwrights such as Ionesco, Brecht, and Camus. Performances tend to lean towards the classical and traditional side, often characterized by their dignified presentations.