Three major cultural events are capturing attention across Belgium, offering diverse artistic experiences from visual arts to theater and literature. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, the Royal Theater of the Galleries in Brussels, and libraries nationwide are hosting significant cultural initiatives that celebrate both international and Belgian artistic heritage.
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp is preparing to host a major exhibition dedicated to René Magritte, the renowned surrealist painter. This exhibition holds special symbolic significance as Magritte returns to the venue where he delivered a lecture titled "The Line of Life" in 1938. The upcoming exhibition takes its inspiration from this very lecture, using it as the central theme that guides visitors through the artist's work.
The exhibition, titled "Magritte, The Line of Life," will showcase some of the same works that were displayed during the artist's 1938 visit, while providing new insights into how Magritte connected surrealism to both Antwerp and Brussels. The show will run from November 15, 2025, to February 22, 2026, with complete information available on the Royal Museum of Fine Arts website.
Meanwhile, Brussels' Royal Theater of the Galleries is staging "Le Prénom" (The First Name), a theatrical production that many may recognize from its film adaptation. However, this comedy originated as a stage play, and Brussels audiences now have the opportunity to experience the original theatrical version. The story centers around a seemingly warm dinner gathering among friends and family that takes an unexpected turn when Vincent, an expectant father, reveals the name he has chosen for his unborn child.
This revelation triggers a cascade of tensions, harsh truths, and surprising revelations among the dinner guests. The script, written by Matthieu Delaporte and Alexandre de la Patellière, is known for its sharp wit, dynamic pacing, and cleverly biting humor. The Brussels production features a talented cast including Catherine Decrolier, Audrey D'Hulstère, Alexis Goslain, Frédéric Nyssen, and Patrick Ridremont, all under the direction of Cécile Florin. The play runs from December 3 through January 11, with reservations already available through trg.be.
On a broader cultural scale, the "Do You Read Belgian?" initiative continues to promote French-speaking Belgian literature across all genres. Launched in 2020, this comprehensive program celebrates the finest literary works produced by Belgium's French-speaking community. The initiative runs through November 30, 2025, inviting everyone to discover, share, and celebrate books in libraries, bookstores, and numerous cultural venues throughout the region.
This extensive literary celebration brings together approximately 40 partners, 75 participating bookstores, 85 publishing houses, and more than 250 libraries. These venues offer a wide range of activities including special events, curated book displays, and author meet-and-greets. The initiative represents a significant effort to honor books in all their forms and to showcase the rich literary tradition of Belgian authors. Those interested in participating can find the complete and detailed program at lisezvousbelge.be.
