The 59th edition of the Festival Vacances Théâtre Stavelot (VTS) is set to take place from 4 to 13 July 2025 in the courtyard of Stavelot Abbey, organisers announced on Monday.
Blending theatre, comedy, music and street arts, the festival will offer a diverse programme for a wide audience.
The opening night on Friday 4 July, will feature Greg Houben with 'Y'a d’la joie', a tribute to the repertoire of Charles Trenet. On the following day, Bruno Coppens will present 'Ma 9e Symfolie', a one-man show where the Belgian comedian plays with words. Sunday 6 July, will be dedicated to street arts with the 13th edition of 'P'tits Festarts', featuring various activities at the historic Stavelot Abbey.
In the evening, French performer Jean-Luc Lemoine will take to the stage with his show 'Liquidation', making its Belgian debut.
From 7 to 9 July, several theatrical performances will be showcased, including “Porca Strada” featuring Fabrizio Rongione, a favourite actor of the Dardenne brothers, and 'Depuis que tu n'as pas tiré' with European slam champion Marie Darah.
A highlight of the event will occur on Thursday, 10 July, when Michel Jonasz performs alongside his pianist Jean-Yves d’Angelo, featuring the singer's greatest hits and some rarely heard tracks.
Another key moment is scheduled for Friday, 11 July, with a conference on near-death experiences led by neuropsychologist Charlotte Martial, preceding the play 'Je voudrais mourir par curiosité', exploring this theme.
The festival will conclude with a novel outdoor event on Sunday 13 July, as two jazz marching bands will entertain the attendees.
