History

A unique theatre

DeLaMar has a theatre history that speaks to the imagination. Reputable names such as Wim Kan, Wim Sonneveld and Freek de Jonge used to perform in the former Nieuwe de la Mar Theater at the Leidseplein. The theatre began collaborating with the adjacent Bellevue in 1987 which gave rise to the Bellevue/Nieuwe de la Mar theatre combination. After many years of presenting beautiful shows it became clear that the building was in need of a considerable renovation. The Theatercombinatie Bellevue/Nieuwe de la Mar formulated a plan for a comprehensive renovation together with VandenEnde Foundation in 2003. The first pile was driven into the ground on 9 September 2008. On 28 November 2010, then queen Beatrix opened the new building, which was renamed DeLaMar Theater. Since then, the public can once again enjoy beautiful musicals, impressive theatre and hilarious cabaret. Great successes include the summer comedies with Tjitske Reidinga and the musical Hij Gelooft In Mij, based on the life of Dutch icon André Hazes

VandenEnde Foundation

DeLaMar is an initiative by VandenEnde Foundation. During the launch of the VandenEnde Foundation in 2001, Joop and Janine van den Ende presented their long-term vision for the Foundation. They believed the Foundation would have to obtain its own physical location to do justice to their goals: developing young talent, cultural entrepreneurship and cultural education. When DeLaMar opened its doors to the public on 28 November 2010, that original vision was realized almost ten years later with their very own theatre. A home of culture where the offering of high-quality and appealing theatre meets stimulation of talent and cultural entrepreneurship.

The VandenEnde Foundation is the private cultural fund of Joop and Janine van den Ende. VandenEnde Foundation’s mission is to promote cultural entrepreneurship. Cultural institutions are stimulated to take new initiatives and strengthen their entrepreneurial qualities. In addition, the Foundation supports individual artists with scholarships for further development of their talents.