The Royal Theatre Toone: A Brussels Tradition on the Verge of UNESCO Recognition

For nearly two centuries, the Royal Theatre Toone has captivated audiences in Brussels with its unique brand of puppet theatre. A cornerstone of Belgian folklore, Toone is not only the only traditional Brussels puppet theatre still in operation, but is poised to receive a prestigious designation that will solidify its place on the world stage. In December 2025, the tradition of Brussels rod puppets is scheduled to be inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity [1].

A History Rooted in Brussels’ Working Class

The theatre’s origins trace back to around 1830, when Antoine “Toone” Genty, a passionate puppeteer, began performing for the working-class residents of the Marolles district [4]. Initially, Toone’s performances were aimed at adults who lacked the means to attend larger theatrical productions or were unable to read and write [2]. The theatre provided accessible entertainment and a reflection of their lives.

The Art of Rod Marionettes and the Brusselian Dialect

Toone specializes in rod marionettes, a traditional form of puppetry where puppets are manipulated using rods rather than strings. The theatre continues to perform plays in the Brusselian dialect, too known as Marols or Marollien, a traditional Brabantian dialect of Brussels [3]. Performances are often infused with zwanze, a sarcastic form of folk humour characteristic of Brussels [5], [6].

Behind the Scenes at Toone

Currently directed by Nicolas Géal, the eighth in a family lineage of puppeteers known as Toone VIII [1], [3], the theatre operates with a small team. Géal himself voices all the puppets, supported by a team of puppeteers who bring the characters to life [2]. Creating a single puppet can take 2 to 3 months, requiring careful attention to movement and balance [2].

A Hidden Gem and a Thriving Repertoire

Since 1966, the theatre has been located in a hidden spot at 66, rue du Marché aux Herbes/Grasmarkt, near the Grand-Place [2]. The premises also house a tavern and a small puppetry museum [1]. Toone boasts a repertoire of around thirty plays, utilizing approximately 30-35 puppets per show, from a collection of over 1,400 puppets [2]. The character of Woltje serves as a mascot, appearing in all plays and sometimes even taking on the role of the hero [2].

UNESCO Recognition and the Future of Toone

The upcoming UNESCO recognition underscores the cultural significance of the Royal Theatre Toone and the tradition of Brussels rod puppets. This designation will assist ensure the preservation and promotion of this unique art form for generations to come [1].