Kursaal Oostende becomes the home of The Atomic Orchestra
Kursaal Oostende becomes the home of The Atomic Orchestra
Kursaal Oostende is opening an exciting new chapter. The Atomic Orchestra will officially become the resident orchestra of the iconic seaside venue. Through this long-term partnership, both organisations are choosing not for a traditional residency, but for a creative collaboration centred on live music, innovation and talent development.
The 47-piece orchestra, which has grown into one of Belgium’s most remarkable musical collectives in recent years, will develop new concert formats, artistic projects and community initiatives from its new home at Kursaal Oostende. In doing so, the renovated Kursaal once again gains its own resident orchestra, more than eighty years after the final notes of its historic house orchestra were heard.
An artistic home by the sea
The Atomic Orchestra was founded at Pukkelpop in 2024 and quickly established itself as a leading force within the Belgian music scene. The orchestra is renowned for its unique collaborations with artists across a wide range of genres, from pop and rock to jazz, metal and electronic music. Rather than simply adding orchestral accompaniment to existing songs, each piece is completely reimagined into a new musical interpretation.
This innovative vision perfectly matches Kursaal Oostende’s ambition to become the place where extraordinary live experiences come to life. Together, both partners aim to create concerts that surprise, connect and move audiences.
More than spectacular concerts
This partnership extends far beyond a series of prestigious performances. Alongside large-scale live productions, the intimate Atomic Sessions will also become a permanent fixture in Ostend. In this concert series, the orchestra is reduced to a nine-piece ensemble that, together with guest artists, rediscovers its repertoire in an intimate setting. Already popular through VRT MAX, this successful concept will now also be presented live at Kursaal Oostende.
In addition, Kursaal Oostende and The Atomic Orchestra are strongly committed to supporting young talent and music education. From 2027 onwards, collaborations will be established with Conservatorium aan Zee, local wind bands, fanfares and music associations. Together, they aim to inspire young people to make music themselves and introduce new generations to the unique experience of live performance.
Grand Opening on 15 December
The first major milestone has already been confirmed. On 15 December 2026, the renovated Kursaal Oostende will officially reopen with a spectacular opening show by The Atomic Orchestra, featuring a number of surprise guest artists. It promises to be an unforgettable evening where music, visuals and live performance come together to showcase everything the renewed Kursaal stands for.
The resident orchestra will continue to play an important role in the venue’s programming. Among its first projects will be enhancing Clouseau’s four-concert series with brand-new orchestral arrangements and an impressive live line-up.
A shared ambition
Through this partnership, Kursaal Oostende, The Atomic Orchestra and the City of Ostend are making a clear commitment to a future where live music is accessible to everyone. By bringing together artists, young talent, local music organisations and audiences, they aim to reach new generations and allow more people to experience the true power of live music.
Because music is at its very best when it brings people together. From now on, that power has a permanent home at Kursaal Oostende. That is what The Power of Live stands for: connecting people, inspiring audiences and creating unforgettable moments.