Theater De Regentes in Segbroek is a theatre for, by, and with the neighbourhood and “the world in The Hague.” It is a unique and vibrant community theatre housed in a distinctive, historic Art Deco building that truly sparks the imagination. International artists take to the stage, but local artists and communities are also given space to share their art and culture.
International artists take the stage, but local artists and communities are also given a place to share their art and culture.
What is the history of Theater De Regentes as a former swimming pool?
De Regentes has a remarkable and eventful history. In 1921, the building opened its doors as the largest indoor swimming pool in Europe. Hundreds of thousands of residents of The Hague learned to swim here. It even hosted international swimming competitions and served as a training venue for world and Olympic champions. In the 1990s, the pool had to close because it no longer met modern standards. The building was then converted into a theatre. To this day, the authentic architecture is still clearly visible in features such as the façade, tiling, and spaces like Het Diepe and Het Ketelhuis.
Atmosphere
Visitors and artists describe the atmosphere as reminiscent of an Off-Broadway theatre. The building includes a large and small theatre hall, a studio, the Ketelhuis, two foyers, and a lunchroom, all of which can be adapted for a wide variety of uses.
Volunteers
Theater De Regentes would not exist without its volunteers. More than one hundred people dedicate their free time to keeping the theatre running. These selfless, warm, and creative individuals can be found throughout the building: in hospitality, audience services, the technical team, the box office, as photographers, and as writers. Their efforts make it possible to offer a unique and diverse programme.
Weimarstraat
The theatre is located in the Segbroek district on the lively Weimarstraat, where there is always something happening. This pleasant, long shopping street extends from the Prins Hendrikstraat in the Zeeheldenkwartier. The Weimarstraat is known for its appealing mix of shops, cafés, and cultural venues.
How to get to Theater De Regentes by car, bike, or public transport?
By car and bike
Theater De Regentes is located in the Regentessekwartier and is easily accessible by car and bicycle. Paid parking applies on the Weimarstraat and Regentesseplein, except on Sundays until 18:00. In the surrounding streets, parking is free until 18:00, after which it becomes paid.
By public transport
The Weimarstraat is also easily accessible by public transport. Within just over a five-minute walk, you can reach tram stops at La Reyweg (lines 2, 4, and 12). In the opposite direction, also about five minutes away, you’ll find tram stops at Conradkade (lines 3 and 11). Tram 12 also stops on the Weimarstraat less than 300 metres from the theatre.
The convivial atmosphere of this cultural hotspot is truly an experience!