Brussels is the bilingual capital of Belgium. Both French and Dutch are the official languages of the city. As the European capital, the city is home to the European Commission and to the Council of ministers of the European Union (EU). Of course, Brussels is also well known for its Grand-Place, Atomium, Manneken-Pis, beers, waffles and chocolates.
There are over 30 theatres in Brussels. The leading French-language Théâtre National officially re-opens in its new permanent home at Boulevard Emile Jacqmain in September 2005 (tel: (02) 203 4155). The main Flemish theatre, Kaaitheater has two locations – Kaaitheater, Place Sainctelette 20 and KaaitheaterStudios, Rue Notre-Dame du Sommeil 81 (tel: (02) 201 5959). Innovative productions are performed in French at the Théâtrele Public, Rue Braemt 64–70 (tel: (0800) 94444), while literary discussions and readings take place at the Théâtre-Poème, Rue d’Ecosse 30 (tel: (02) 538 6358). The American Theatre Company is an English-language theatre group based in Brussels, staging performances at The Studio Theatre, Rue Waelhem 73, Schaerbeek. One venue not to be missed is the Théâtre de Toone, Petite Rue de Bouchers 21 (tel: (02) 511 7137), where classics such as Faust and King Lear are performed by marionettes manipulated by seven puppeteers. Performances are in French (peppered with local dialect), Flemish and occasionally English. It is housed in a 17th century pub and offers a good range of local beers for refreshment.
