Théâtre La Montagne Magique

Théâtre La Montagne Magique: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions in Brussels

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Théâtre La Montagne Magique, located at 57 Rue du Marais in central Brussels, is a cornerstone of French-language youth theatre and a vibrant center for family-friendly cultural experiences. With roots stretching back to the early 19th century, the theatre has evolved from a private residence to a colonial bank and, since 1972, into a beloved cultural venue. This guide provides all essential information—history, visitor hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions—to help you plan a rewarding visit to one of Brussels’ most dynamic and inclusive theatres (La Montagne Magique – Les secrets de la montagne; brussels.be; montagnemagique.be).

Overview and Significance
Historical Evolution
Visitor Information
Programming and Festivals
Cultural and Educational Impact
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Tips
Visual Resources
References

Overview and Significance

Théâtre La Montagne Magique stands as Brussels’ premier French-language youth theatre, renowned for fostering creativity, imagination, and social inclusion. It serves as a hub for families, school groups, and cultural tourists, offering an extensive program of performances, interactive workshops, and major international festivals. The theatre’s mission is to democratize access to the arts, nurture young minds, and celebrate diversity, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an enriching cultural experience in Brussels (brussels.be; bruxellessecrete.com).

Historical Evolution

Early History

Constructed in 1801 as a private bourgeois residence, the building retained its original architectural charm, including winding staircases and hidden corners. In the late 19th century, it became a colonial bank, with features such as a glass-roofed hall and reinforced vaults, remnants of which are still visible today (La Montagne Magique – Les secrets de la montagne).

Transformation to a Theatre

In 1972, the City of Brussels transformed the space into Théâtre des Jeunes de la Ville de Bruxelles, dedicating it to youth arts and democratizing cultural access. After a period of neglect in the early 1990s, the venue was revitalized in 1995 and reopened as Théâtre La Montagne Magique, inspired by the spirit of imagination and learning from Thomas Mann’s “The Magic Mountain.” Major renovations preserved historical elements while adapting the space for contemporary performances (La Montagne Magique – La montagne magique; Le Petit Moutard – La Montagne Magique).

Architectural Features and Legends

The theatre’s labyrinthine layout and blend of old and new architectural elements create an atmosphere of discovery. Local legends—including tales of the Duke of Wellington’s victory celebrations and a resident ghost—add to the mystique (La Montagne Magique – Les secrets de la montagne).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Performance Days: Typically open Tuesday to Sunday.
Showtimes: Afternoons and evenings; exact times vary. Weekend performances are open to the public; weekdays are often reserved for school groups.
Box Office: Open from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM on show days. Doors open 30 minutes prior to performances.
Check the official website for current schedules and special event timings.

Tickets and Reservations

Where to Buy: Online at montagnemagique.be, by phone, or at the box office.
Pricing: €8 (under 21, students, teachers, jobseekers), €10 (adults 21+), with discounts for groups, Paspartoekansentarief (€2), and Article 27 (€1.25) (agendabw.be).
Advance booking is advised, especially for festivals or popular shows.
Special Provisions: Social inclusion programs like Article 27 and family/group rates available.

Accessibility

Physical Access: Step-free entrance, elevator, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
Assistance: Staff available for visitors with special needs; European Disability Card holders may receive discounts.
Sensory-Friendly: “Relax” performances for audiences with sensory sensitivities or cognitive disabilities.
Contact the theatre in advance for specific requirements (visit.brussels accessibility guide).

Getting There

Location: Rue du Marais 57, 1000 Brussels.
Public Transport: Metro (De Brouckère, Rogier), tram, and bus lines nearby.
Train: Brussels Central and Brussels North stations within walking distance.
Parking: Limited; public transport recommended.

Facilities and Amenities

Cloakroom: Available for coats and bags.
Restrooms: Accessible and clean.
Refreshments: Light snacks before shows and during intermission.
Childcare: Provided for siblings during select events (advance notice recommended).
Merchandise: Programs and souvenirs occasionally for sale.

Programming and Festivals

La Montagne Magique stages approximately 250 to 300 performances annually, featuring Belgian and international productions, original creations, and adaptations of classic works. The theatre’s two major annual international festivals, such as EXPORT/IMPORT (co-hosted with BRONKS), spotlight innovative artists and foster cross-cultural exchange (bronks.be). Many shows are accessible to non-French speakers through non-verbal storytelling or surtitles, especially during festivals.

Interactive workshops, artist residencies, and post-show discussions enrich the cultural experience for all ages (brussels.be).

Cultural and Educational Impact

Artistic and Community Engagement

The theatre is celebrated for its bold, imaginative programming that stimulates curiosity, emotional intelligence, and social reflection. Productions often tackle themes such as identity, diversity, resilience, and environmental awareness, with interactive formats that encourage participation and dialogue (bruxellessecrete.com).

Educational Initiatives

Dedicated educational programs include tailored school performances, teacher and parent training, and social inclusion initiatives. Article 27 and other community partnerships ensure broad cultural access (prof.cfwb.be).

Institutional Support and Partnerships

Supported by the City of Brussels, Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles, the Commission Communautaire Française, and Creative Europe, the theatre collaborates with local and international organizations, including BRONKS, Théâtre National Wallonie-Bruxelles, and the Centre de Littérature de Jeunesse (La Montagne Magique – La montagne magique).

Nearby Attractions

Grand Place: UNESCO-listed historic square.
Belgian Comic Strip Center: Celebrating Belgium’s comic art heritage.
Museum of Musical Instruments, Mont des Arts, Marolles district: Cultural sites within walking distance.
Galeries Saint Hubert: Elegant shopping arcade.

Combine your theatre visit with a stroll through Brussels’ vibrant cultural and historical districts (Happy to Wander).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Generally Tuesday–Sunday, with public performances on weekends and afternoons/evenings. Check the official website for current schedules.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online, by phone, or at the box office. Discounts for children, students, seniors, groups, and through social programs.

Q: Is the theatre accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free access, ramps, accessible restrooms, and “relax” performances.

Q: Are performances suitable for non-French speakers?
A: Many shows use non-verbal storytelling or offer surtitles, especially during festivals.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, especially during special events or festivals.

Practical Tips

Arrive early—at least 15–20 minutes before showtime.
Check age recommendations for each performance.
Food & drink: Enjoy refreshments in the lobby, but not in the auditorium.
Photography: Not permitted during performances.
Bag policy: Bring only small personal items.
Advance contact: For special needs or group visits, contact the theatre ahead (Brussels.be).

Visual Resources

Théâtre La Montagne Magique Entrance
Alt text: The grand green entrance door of Théâtre La Montagne Magique in Brussels.

Glass-roofed Hall Interior
Alt text: Interior view of the glass-roofed hall, formerly the bank’s courtyard.

Additional high-quality images and virtual tours are available on the theatre’s website.

References and Useful Links

Plan Your Visit

Théâtre La Montagne Magique is a beacon of artistic innovation and inclusive cultural engagement in Brussels. Book your tickets online, check the latest schedules, and consider pairing your theatre experience with a visit to nearby historical sites. For real-time updates, download the Audiala app and follow the theatre on Facebook and Instagram.