SPOTT officially inaugurated its new performance venue, set up in the church of Limelette, on October 5th. This temporary space will host a significant portion of the center's 2026-2027 programming.
Faced with the year-long closure of its main building for renovations, which began on June 1st, SPOTT had to find an alternative to avoid technical unemployment for its staff. After exploring various locations, the church in Limelette, suggested by the Alderman for Religious Affairs Benoît Jacob, was chosen for its volume and lack of obstructive pillars.
An agreement was reached on May 19th with the church fabric for temporary use, without desacralization. Worship services will continue in a dedicated chapel, and the parish hall remains available for rent through SPOTT.
The setup, which began on August 17th, included the installation of a 300-seat tiered seating arrangement and an 8x8m stage. Dressing rooms were set up in the sacristy, and a battery storage system was implemented to address insufficient electrical power. The emergency services gave their approval on September 24th.
“"The miracle happened before our eyes: a marathon run at sprint speed. We haven't just provided a logistical solution to a construction constraint. What we are testing here will undoubtedly inspire others; I've already received several calls."
Mayor Nicolas Van der Maren, returning from Paris, challenged the president and director of SPOTT to host Céline Dion in Limelette, praising the demonstrated capacity for adaptation and innovation.
Representatives from the Provincial College, Tanguy Stuckens and Benjamin Goes, expressed their satisfaction with their contribution to this project, recalling their recent support for other cultural initiatives.
Belgian-Peruvian singer-songwriter David Méndez Yépez (Chicos y Mendez), former president of the FEF, inaugurated the stage with two songs, highlighting the venue's acoustic qualities and commending the opening of a new cultural space as an 'almost revolutionary' act.
The first scheduled performance at SPOTT in Limelette will be by Gaëtan Delferière on October 9th.
