HAPPENING 28-29 March 2025 | Rotterdam's cafés transform into theatres as Café Theater Festival returns in March 2025 with diverse performances across the city.
Café Theater Festival returns to Rotterdam in 2025
The Café Theater Festival (CTF) is set to return to Rotterdam on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 March 2025. As part of a three-city festival taking place in Utrecht, Arnhem, and Rotterdam, the event will feature performances from emerging creators in various hospitality venues. This year’s festival will include a wide range of artistic disciplines, offering a unique cultural experience in everyday locations.
Performances in Rotterdam's iconic neighbourhoods
During the Rotterdam edition, performances will take place in approximately 15 cafés and hospitality venues spread across De Kop van Zuid, Katendrecht, and Afrikaanderwijk. These intimate settings will host a variety of short performances, allowing visitors to experience theatre in unexpected places.
Showcasing emerging talent
Out of over 160 applicants, the festival’s artistic team selected 41 promising creators who are currently preparing site-specific performances designed specifically for the festival. These artists are supported both artistically and professionally by the festival, which aims to act as a platform for emerging talent. Previous notable participants include Janneke de Bijl, Club Lam, and Marco Lopes.
Art without barriers
CTF is committed to making theatre accessible to everyone. By removing traditional entry barriers, the festival encourages audiences to discover performances in casual, familiar settings like pubs, coffee shops, and tea houses. Payments are made afterward following the Pay What You Can principle, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the experience.
Directions to the festival
The Rotterdam performances will take place in venues across De Kop van Zuid, Katendrecht, and Afrikaanderwijk. These lively neighbourhoods are easily accessible via public transport, with Metro stations such as Wilhelminaplein, Rijnhaven, and Maashaven nearby.
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