De Doelen sees immediate growth after change of course
De Doelen is seeing immediate results from a refined strategy. In the first ten days of presales for the 2026–2027 classical season, as many tickets were sold as in the first seven months of the previous season. Combined with the pop programme, the picture becomes even clearer: in the first quarter of 2026, de Doelen sold more tickets than in the whole of 2025. Its own productions are also showing strong growth, with 41% of total hall capacity sold in the first quarter.
This growth points to more than just a successful campaign. There was a real, latent demand for greater direction and distinction.
With the launch of the new 2026–2027 concert season, Samen in Muziek (Together in Music), de Doelen has consciously chosen a clear direction: a stronger artistic profile, a focus on music as its core, and a deeper connection with the city of Rotterdam and its residents.
Focus on the core
In the second half of 2025, this direction was reassessed under the leadership of the new director, together with a committed team and the Supervisory Board. Targeted choices were made to balance artistic positioning and value with social impact and economic sustainability. This is reflected in a more deliberate use of the main hall and iconic spaces such as the conference complex, and a renewed focus on the emotional connection with the audience.
Rotterdam as an ecosystem
An essential part of the strategy is a more intensive approach to collaborations within the city. Rotterdam is not a backdrop, but a cultural ecosystem rich in voices, perspectives and talent. This calls for a different attitude: listening more closely, collaborating more meaningfully, and creating space for participation.
This takes concrete form in collaborations such as the sold-out Morrissey concert with Rotown, and new initiatives with partners such as Stichting CONFRO. Work is also underway on a new festival with more than 15 partners across the city, where music serves as the starting point for dialogue and mutual understanding.
Future with a rich legacy
With roots in Rotterdam dating back to 1697 and a building opened in 1966 as part of the post-war reconstruction, de Doelen is firmly embedded in the city’s cultural life. For decades, it has been a place where international top quality and local talent come together, from Miles Davis and Yo-Yo Ma to the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Bruce Springsteen and Elton John.
This legacy is not static, but a source of inspiration and a point of departure. In the lead-up to its 60th anniversary in 2026, de Doelen is actively using this history to shape the future.
Samen in Muziek is not just the title of the season.
It is a direction.