Théâtre 140

Théâtre 140 is an independent cultural venue in Schaerbeek (Schaarbeek), one of the municipalities of the Brussels-Capital Region, known for a bold and eclectic programme spanning theatre, contemporary dance, cabaret, concerts, and puppet shows. The venue's name comes directly from its address — it sits at number 140 on Avenue Eugène Plasky.

Where did this venue come from?

Théâtre 140 was founded in 1963 by Jo Dekmine, who had previously run several Brussels cabarets, including "La Poubelle" and "La Tour de Babel". In 1962 he was entrusted with managing a large performance hall then under construction, originally intended for occasional use by the neighbouring parish only a few days a year. Dekmine turned it into a venue for regular, ambitious cultural programming, and the hall opened its doors in autumn 1963 under the name that Brussels' arts scene still knows today.

What played on this stage?

From its earliest seasons, Théâtre 140 championed artists outside the mainstream and performers who blurred the lines between disciplines. The stage hosted names such as Serge Gainsbourg, clown Dimitri of Ascona, writer Roland Dubillard with his play "Naïves Hirondelles," as well as Léo Ferré and Barbara — figures who helped build the venue's reputation as a meeting point for chanson, theatre, and the counterculture of the 1960s and 70s.

Over time, the venue became an important stop on the international circuit for contemporary dance and theatre, hosting choreographers and directors such as Mathilde Monnier, Josef Nadj, Alain Platel, and Georges Appaix, in line with a search for new, hybrid stage forms.

How has the theatre's leadership changed?

Jo Dekmine ran Théâtre 140 without interruption for 53 seasons. In September 2015, he handed over direction to his colleague Astrid Van Impe. Since March 2024, Alain Cofino Gomez has served as general and artistic director, continuing a programming line open to forms that resist easy classification.

Since 2024, the venue has also partnered with the Pierre de Lune company, adding performances for young audiences to its repertoire — an element previously absent from an institution whose focus had largely been on adult audiences.

Who is this venue for?

Théâtre 140 remains a stage for audiences looking for programming beyond the repertory mainstream — dance, theatre, and musical performances that blend genres rather than sticking to a single convention. It's a place where local and international artists present what the venue itself describes as "unclassifiable and hybrid" work. The hall is accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Théâtre 140 located? At 140 Avenue Eugène Plasky, in the municipality of Schaerbeek (Schaarbeek) in Brussels — hence the venue's name.

Who founded Théâtre 140? Jo Dekmine, in 1963, after previously running Brussels cabarets in the 1950s.

What kind of events can you see here? Theatre, contemporary dance, cabaret, concerts, and puppet shows, with an emphasis on experimental and hybrid forms.

Who currently runs the theatre? Since March 2024, Alain Cofino Gomez has been general and artistic director.

Does the theatre programme events for children? Yes, since 2024, thanks to a partnership with Pierre de Lune, the repertoire has included performances for young audiences.