Entertainment | October 11 and 12 Nuit Blanche falls upon the City

Take two for Brussels' Nuit Blanche. On October 11 and 12, the heart of the city will vibrate at night for partygoers, of course, but also for culture enthusiasts and lovers of unusual places. There are still people who think that the City does not live at night, so this will be an opportunity to prove them wrong, says Mayor Freddy Thielemans. Last year, the event attracted nearly 30,000 insomniacs. Despite torrential rain, everyone set off to explore public spaces and performances of all kinds across the four corners of the Region. The 2003 edition focuses on the territory of the City of Brussels. Headquarters will be set up at the Tour et Taxis freight station. Street arts, concerts, film screenings, or Roller parade: there will be something for everyone. Since beaches are popular, says Georges Dallemagne, Alderman for Sports, we will install one on site, featuring pétanque, badminton, and beach volleyball. On the music side, a plethora of styles is announced, from jazz to hip-hop, including raggamuffin and electro. Throughout the night, several extra-muros circuits will be offered to participants: Heysel Stadium, Marolles, Bains de Bruxelles, or the Bourse. Buses will provide free transportation for revelers. The 'transitional' version of Nuit Blanche is said to be the prelude to a more European edition starting next year. We hope to reach a federation of European cities and exchange shows, artists, and why not, mayors, smiles Thielemans. One can better understand the mayor's enthusiasm knowing that future partners include Paris and Rome. It is not just about getting revelers out, but about doing long-term work, adds Henri Simons, Alderman for Culture. It is thus planned that in 2004 we will submit, with Paris and Rome, an application for European subsidies. Despite its financial troubles, the City could hardly skip 2003. This year, Nuit Blanche is an opportunity to build a bridge with Rome, which will already have a local flavor, as a contemporary dance troupe, 'Transit', is invited to enliven Roman train stations. • October 11 and 12, from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Price: 5 euros (8 with breakfast). Info and program 0473/78.78.18 or www.nuit-blanche.org (accessible in a few days).