Expert recommendations of the top dance, theater, and classical music performances.
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Paradiso
“It started out as a hippie hangout and remains shockingly hip to this day.”—Steve Korver, editor, Amsterdam Weekly. Everyone from the Rolling Stones to Prince has performed on the main stage of this pop temple venue near the Leidseplein. Up-and-coming bands (including Coldplay and Arctic Monkeys, when they were just starting out) play in the more intimate, and cheaper, upstairs hall. Tickets from $9. Weteringschans 6-8; tel. +31 20 626 4521. www.paradiso.nl
The Dutch National Ballet
“One of the country’s jewels, they do an outstanding job on the classics.”—Monique Gruter, freelance dance critic. Performances in the 1,600-seat Muziektheater, famous for its Carrara marble facade, curved glass front wall, and a huge stage suitable for epic productions. Tickets from $19. Het Muziektheater, Amstel 3; tel. +31 20 625 5455. www.muziektheater.nl and www.het-nationale-ballet.nl
The Netherlands National Opera
“A first-rate company that doesn’t focus on big names.”—Guus van den Hout, executive director, Museum Catharijneconvent. Often underrated operas performed in innovative, inspiring ways. Performances held in the Muziektheater. From $23. Het Musiektheater, Amstel 3; +31 20 625 5455. www.dno.nl
Netherlands Dance Theater
“They are actually based in Den Haag (The Hague), but they perform in Amsterdam, and all over the world.”—Monique Gruter. Emphasis on contemporary, innovative choreography and modern classics; features two ensembles that perform frequently—NDT 1 is the main company, NDT 2 showcases young dancers—and its third ensemble features dancers over 40. +31 70 8800 100. www.ndt.nl
Muziekgebouw aan’t IJ
“Located in the newly developed docklands area, the building sits right on the water so you get beautiful liquid effects, like you’re floating.”—Bart Plantenga, producer and host, Wreck This Mess radio show. Called the concert hall of the 21st century, it features perfect acoustics for large-scale concerts; the smaller Binhuis next door hosts jazz and improvisational concerts. Tickets from $13. Piet Heinkade 1; tel. +31 20 788 2000. www.muziekgebouw.nl
The Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Orchestra performs in the recently restored Concertgebouw, a 19th-century concert hall, just opposite the Rijksmuseum in the museum quarter. Famous for its pitch-perfect acoustics and legendary performances. Tickets from $23. Concertgebouwplein 2-6; tel. +31 20 671 8345. www.concertgebouworkest.nl
