A bit of history
Following the initiative of the Harmonie Association, founded in 1874, the construction of "De Harmonie Society" was completed in 1881. At the time, De Harmonie was an elitist society used for events that were both large and small, from performing arts to massive non-artistic events. Such as exhibitions, world shows, auctions, fairs, gymnastics exercises, school and company parties, circuses, and also through film shows and pop concerts.
It was later decided that De Harmonie was not only a home for a select audience but for a much wider audience.
1995: a new building
In 1995 it was decided, in collaboration with the architect Frits van Dongen, to transform the building into a theater with a unique character. The design of the Harmonie is based on the water environment of Friesland, so that if you look closely you can recognize a boat in the outside of the building. The design even turned out to be so good that, due to its acoustics, the Rabobankzaal was taken over in design for the design of the Heineken Music Hall (now known as AFAS Live).
Sustainability, that is what Stadsschouwburg De Harmonie takes very seriously. A good balance between sustainable business and comfort; that's what it's about. For example, conscious use of water, heating or air conditioning. Or serving organic coffee, wine and bionade, Fair Trade chocolate and tea. But also the solar panels on the roof. Through all efforts, De Harmonie achieved the GreenKey Gold status in one go. Unique in the north and particularly in the Netherlands.