Griffioen is moving

22nd July 2021

It’s really going to happen soon. Griffioen is moving! After 50 years at Uilenstede we are moving to the campus of the Vrije Universiteit.

After a long moving process Griffioen will open its doors this fall at De Boelelaan 1111. And we are not alone in this. Together with film theatre Rialto and VU Art & Science Gallery, we are bringing a broad range of cultural activities to all the residents of Amsterdam Zuid. Whether you study at the VU or work in the Zuidas.

Relocation in phases

The move will happen in phases. In September, the courses will start in the OZW building for the first time, better known as ‘the Red Potato’ or ‘Rode Pieper’. There, ten new course rooms are currently being set up. These will retain their familiar mythical names. In November, theatre 2 will open in the New University Building. Together with Rialto, we will also operate a cultural café there, complete with bar, stage and terrace. Finally, in December, we will open the doors of theatre 5.

It is still possible to say goodbye to the old, familiar Griffioen at Uilenstede until October. In 50 years time, we have built a lot of beautiful memories with you there. We will certainly miss our cosy home.

Brand new

Saying goodbye is always difficult, but there is also a lot to look forward to. The Griffioenzaall was in dire need of new chairs. Soon, we will have room for 340 guests in theatre 2 and another 150 in theatre 5. A lot of course material will be renewed, new dance floors will be built and most rooms will have a beautiful view of the area. In addition, you will be able to enjoy a delicious three-course meal in our café before performances.

Above all, at the new location we will be able to collaborate much more closely with other parties to create a more in-depth programme and organise surprising new events. We will mainly do this with Rialto and VU Art & Science Gallery, but also with associations of the VU, organisations on the Zuidas and possibly with the municipalities of Amsterdam and Amstelveen. In addition, we will continue to professionalise and want to focus more on diversity and inclusion in our organisation and programming. We don't want to give too much away yet of course, but there are a lot of great plans in the works for the next few years.

Cultural opening

This autumn, together with Rialto VU and VU Art & Science Gallery, we will organise an official cultural opening and you are invited. Keep an eye on our site for more information. See you soon!

Photographer: Too van Velzen (pictures NU building exterior and atrium)