NDSM

A shipbuilding yard at the beginning of the last century, NDSM is now a cultural complex that's yet to be completed, a state of affairs that's rather in step with the constantly mutating needs of Amsterdam's vibrant artistic community. Despite being unfinished, it still manages to stage some of the most provocative dance, mime and theatre productions in Amsterdam. Apart from two stages, one of which is to be made completely of recycled materials, it serves as a breeding ground for artists; small-scale workshops and performances are held here almost daily in its labyrinth of studios and performance areas. Unfortunately, wrangling over the venue's fire and safety capabilities may threaten some of the large-scale activities held here, such as the mind-altering multimedia festival Robodock.