Studio Boekman - Dutch National Opera & Ballet Amsterdam 

Studio Boekman is the new small performance hall of the Dutch National Opera & Ballet. We have been awarded the contract for the design, manufacture and installation of the telescopic grandstand for this intimate theatre with a flat floor.


It is a meeting point for opera, ballet, and audiences; for legacy and innovation; for creators and social partners; and for people of all ages and cultures. 

Retractable grandstand

The hall is equipped with a fully automatic telescopic grandstand with a capacity of 177 theatre seats. The first row of seats is in five mobile sections, which can be removed separately to make room for wheelchairs.

COS retractabel grandstand in Studio Boekman - Dutch National Opera & Ballet

Rigid chain propulsion

The grandstand has a push chain drive system. The chain system operates completely independently of the floor, allowing perfect opening and closing. It also gives the grandstand unrivalled stability. 

Fully automatic seat rows 

The grandstand seats are set up and folded down fully automatically. This mechanical movement is made possible by the use of the rigid chain system. The seats are raised and locked in place in the same motion as the stand is opened. When retracting, the seats are unlocked and folded down in a controlled manner. Total set-up time is less than 12 minutes with a single operator. 

Retractable grandstand with rigid chain propulsion - photo Serapid

Finish and seats 

The visible and invisible metal structure is powder coated in RAL 9005 black. The grandstands are finished with high quality project carpet and velour side panels. The two aisles are fitted with LED fibre-optic indicators to alert the audience as they walk to their seats. The Diamond seats were finished to the client's specifications, within the limits of what was possible. Camira Fabrics' Xtreme quality was chosen for the upholstery. The base and armrests are finished in black. 

Project details Studio Boekman 

  • Address: National Opera & Ballet Amsterdam: Amstel 3, 1011 PN Amsterdam 
  • Hall: Studio Boekman 
  • Client: National Opera & Ballet Amsterdam. operaballet.nl
  • Architect: Dam and Partners - Karel Bodon damenpartners.com 
  • Completion: 2023 

Photo credits: Fabian Calis