Théâtre Le Manège

Théâtre Le Manège is one of the key cultural venues in Mons, occupying a building that spent decades serving a completely different purpose. Before it became a theatre, the site housed a military riding hall built in 1903, known as the Leopold manège. The structure stood until 1944, when it was destroyed in a bombing. The ruins of the old riding hall then waited for a new purpose, which eventually arrived through an ambitious architectural project.

How did an old riding hall become a theatre?

The transformation of the 19th-century structure into a modern cultural venue was designed by architect Pierre Hebbelinck. His concept combined the preserved historic shell with a bold, contemporary addition — a glazed section that opens the building toward the city and passers-by. This contrast between old and new is today one of the recognizable features of Mons' architectural landscape. Théâtre Le Manège officially opened on 25 January 2006, marking the start of a new chapter in the city's cultural life.

What was staged at the opening?

The venue's 2006 opening production was "Minetti", based on the play by Thomas Bernhard, directed by Lorent Wanson. Choosing this title for the inauguration signaled the ambitions of the new institution — one aiming at demanding, contemporary theatre rather than purely entertainment-driven programming.

Which organization runs the theatre?

Théâtre Le Manège operates within the structure now known as Mars – Mons arts de la scène, previously named Le Manège Mons Maubeuge. This organization was formed in 2002 through the merger of three separate entities: a regional cultural centre, a dramatic arts centre, and Musiques Nouvelles, an ensemble dedicated to contemporary music. This merger brought several performing disciplines — from dramatic theatre to experimental music — under one roof, and that diversity still shapes the programming today.

Why is Théâtre Le Manège worth visiting?

For visitors exploring Mons, the theatre is interesting not only as a performance venue but also as an example of a successful conversion of a former military structure for cultural use. The building's architecture — the contrast between the raw, historic shell and the light, glazed contemporary addition — is a point of interest in its own right for architecture enthusiasts. Its central location in Mons makes it easy to combine a visit with exploring the city's other attractions.

Frequently asked questions

What was the building before it became a theatre? A military riding hall (manège), built in 1903 and destroyed by bombing in 1944.

When did Théâtre Le Manège officially open? On 25 January 2006.

Who designed the building's conversion? Architect Pierre Hebbelinck, who combined the historic shell with a modern glazed extension.

Which organization manages the theatre? Mars – Mons arts de la scène (formerly Le Manège Mons Maubeuge), formed in 2002 from the merger of a cultural centre, a dramatic arts centre, and the Musiques Nouvelles ensemble.

What production opened the venue in 2006? "Minetti" by Thomas Bernhard, directed by Lorent Wanson.