Stopera - Stopera information and pictures
The
Stadhuis-Muziektheater complex, referred to as
Stopera, is a modern glass building on the bank of the Amstel River near the Waterlooplein market, which houses the City Hall and a renowned opera house. Completed in 1988, the Stopera took over two decades and two different architects to finish.
Local residents protested, violently at times, to stop the construction of a modern building in a district populated with historic structures. Many medieval buildings were demolished to make way for the new Stadhuis-Muziektheater center. Years later however, the Stopera is hailed as the cultural heart of
Amsterdam.
The Architecture - The modern design of the Stopera was first conceived by Viennese architect Wilhelm Holzbauer, and completed by Cees Dam. The building is a massive curved block with a glass exterior and a distinctive russet colored roof. The interior features high spacious foyers with stunning views of the Amstel River and the famous
Skinny Bridge. The 1,600-seat auditorium is decorated with glazed bricks and gold mosaic tiles.
The Performances - The Opera Company performs nearly a dozen operas every year and has appeared at the Metropolitan Opera House and Australia’s Adelaide Festival. The National Ballet Company performs classics, such as Giselle and Don Giovanni as well as modern dance pieces.
Guided tours are available of the theatre that includes a backstage view of the elaborate costumes, stage props and theatre machinery. Every Tuesday from October through June, free lunch time concerts are offered in the Stopera’s Boekmanzaal room. The free performances are a perfect venue to introduce the highly regarded opera and ballet performers to Amsterdam’s residents.
Where is Stopera: Waterlooplein 22
How to get to Stopera: Subway to Waterlooplein Station
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