There’s so much to do in Groningen, that you really need a guide to help you uncover the city’s hidden gems. UKrant’s student editors will once again share their cultural agenda with you. What’s their favourite venue and which events are absolutely not to be missed?
Hangout: Forum Groningen movie theatre
As someone who keeps a close eye on the goings-on in America’s tinsel town, Hollywood, it’s only natural to visit the cinema on occasion, which can sometimes make for a truly unforgettable experience. Few things are seared into my brain the way the opening-night ruckus of Avengers: Endgame in Pathé’s largest auditorium is.
However, while Dutch cinema chains are a serviceable venue for such event films, the Forum’s movie theatre provides a much cosier alternative. A quieter, more laid-back and atmospheric setting with only five auditoriums. A delightful change of pace from commercialised cinemas that cater to the masses.
On the Forum’s fifth floor, you encounter the Camera Café, a charming waiting area where people can have a drink before and after their screening. In most cinemas, it’s in and out as soon as possible. Here, visitors are encouraged to stick around, have a chat, and reflect on the film in a set of comfy chairs. It feels more like a genuine ‘night on the town’.
Visitors are encouraged to stick around, have a chat, and reflect on the film in a set of comfy chairs
Rather than just providing the usual roster of new releases, the Forum often gives you an early look at smaller films surrounded by Oscar buzz. I was delighted to catch black tragicomedy The Banshees of Inisherin, shot on the Irish island where my dad grew up, as well as the endearing dramedy and instant classic The Holdovers, ahead of their chain releases.
They also frequently re-release classics like Orson Welles’ F for Fake, play host to film festivals like their upcoming Framed X Kaboom Anime collaboration, and feature a rooftop cinema and diner. The latter I’ve yet to experience, but I’m excited by the prospect of being served food thematically relevant to the film.
After being closed for a week, the cinema is yet again open to the public and I can’t wait to go and watch Parasite-director Bong Joon-ho’s Snowpiercer and anime landmark Cowboy Bebop on the big screen for the first time!
Forum Groningen movie theatre
Nieuwe Markt 1
Open Monday to Sunday
Where you’ll find me in the coming weeks
As my vinyl collection is growing hungry for a new addition, I will be going on the hunt for a new Ms. Lauryn Hill, John Coltrane, D’Angelo, or Eartha Kitt record at Plato this week. A brief moment of flicking through the heaps of music at this wonderful shop is something I’d recommend to anyone!
Groninger Museumnacht
When: September 21, 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Price: €12.50
On Saturday, you’ll be able to attend every museum in Groningen for just €12.50! Although I certainly enjoy going to museums abroad, I admit I’ve seen very little of the ones in my home city. Here’s the perfect opportunity to visit various art exhibitions by following the brand-new Rainbow Route, but also experience a variety of special events and workshops!
Cat café Op z’n Kop
When: daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Price: Monday-Friday €1.50, weekends €3.00
Since she’s a big fan of both cats and this café, I’ll be paying a visit to Op z’n Kop on my sister’s recommendation. Here, customers are able to combine the joys of a nice lunch date with the company of a group of furry, feline friends. The purr-fect pairing!
SPOT Oosterpoort | New Purple Celebration: The Music of Prince
When: September 25, 8.30 p.m.
Price: €28.10
Eight years after His Royal Badness’ passing, I will be honouring Prince’s legacy by attending New Purple Celebration: The Music of Prince in the Oosterpoort. Though undoubtedly never reaching the Purple One’s greatness, this British tribute band will have me jamming to his catalogue being played live, something I wish I’d been able to do while he was still here.
Pathé | Joker: Folie à Deux
When: October 3, 8 p.m.
Price: €13.00
While I adore the Forum, blockbusters like this long-awaited sequel to 2019’s Joker are best seen on the biggest screen in the biggest auditorium of the biggest cinema. While mixed on the movie’s predecessor, I’m very excited to see what this Lady Gaga-starring, musical take on the Joker will bring!