70 Years of Theater Arsenaal Celebrated with Performances and Reunion of ‘The Colleagues’

Theater Arsenaal in Mechelen, Belgium, is celebrating its 70th anniversary with a weekend of festivities, including performances and a reunion of beloved comedic duo Jaak Van Assche and Tuur De Weert, known for their act “De Colleagues.”

A Historic Milestone

Theater Arsenaal has become a cornerstone of the Mechelen cultural landscape, serving as a vital space for theatrical performances for seven decades. As stated by those involved, the theater represents a significant cultural memory: “We are the memory of the theater.” HLN reports.

“De Colleagues” Reunite

Jaak Van Assche (85) and Tuur De Weert (82) are back on stage together for the anniversary celebrations. Their performance, “Feest!” runs from March 20th to March 22nd, 2026, at Theater Arsenaal. The Standard highlights the enduring power of their connection with audiences, noting that “that deal with your audience remains something very powerful.”

Anniversary Festivities

The 70th-anniversary program includes a variety of events, such as an exhibition, and performances. Facebook details that Jaak Van Assche and Tuur De Weert are central to the celebrations.

Looking Ahead

Theater Arsenaal’s 70th anniversary is a testament to its enduring legacy and continued relevance in the cultural life of Mechelen. The reunion of Jaak Van Assche and Tuur De Weert is a particularly poignant moment, celebrating not only their individual careers but also the history of the theater itself. HLN notes that the pair reflect on the beginnings of their success within the theater’s walls.