About
Direct upon entering is the new PHIL Café. A space with a beautiful interplay of classical and modern elements. The monumental doors can be opened, allowing the space to connect with the Grote Foyer. There is a large bar, making this space very suitable as a reception area. The space is also well-suited for a sub-session with an informal theater setup. The small stage can be used for both a speaker and live music.
- Area 143 m2
- Capacity 60 theater, 150 reception or 90 buffet
- Atmospheric space for a reception or a sub-session
- Fixed stage for a speaker or a small music group
- Can be used independently or combined with the Grote Foyer
Rich history
The predecessor of the current PHIL is the gentlemen's society 'Vereeniging'. Before these Haarlem entrepreneurs opened the doors of the concert hall (the current Grote Zaal) in 1873, they used this space as a meeting place, complete with a billiards and game room. Fact or fable is that the Blue Room, as the PHIL Café was called until recently, got its name because it was the last room in the building where you were still allowed to smoke, and therefore it was always 'blue'.
Transformation of the Blue Room to PHIL Café
Preserving the historical elements, this beautiful hall was transformed into the PHIL Café in the summer of 2023, a space that invites you to socialize and listen to music, before or after a performance or event. The small stage is ideal for a speaker at a sub-session, but also for a DJ or small music group at a drinks event or party.
Damiaatjes
With a bit of luck, you can enjoy the sound of the 'Damiaatjes', the nickname for the melody that comes from the Grote or St. Bavo on the nearby Grote Markt.
