Opening session
Saturday, October 17, 2026 · 3:30 PM
WHAT IS IT?
- Nightclub meets absurdist behavior lab
- Dramaturgical glitch swarm
- Interpersonal derangement LARP
- Language mutation boot camp
- Nursery for whole and half wits
THE FIFTH PLACE
The Fifth Place is a social club within Van Abbemuseum devoted to behavioral experimentation and more abstract forms of togetherness. A gathering for high-level play between strangers, guided by a system of roles and rules that twist language, gesture and meaning.
On selected dates, The Fifth Place hosts concentrated activations lasting about an hour, followed by an optional short debrief. Participation is free and advance registration is required.
The space will be open for other forms of participation during regular museum hours through January. Five further participatory sessions will be announced here soon. Director of Behavior: Michael Portnoy Scenography designed in collaboration with architect Christian Wassmann
The Fifth Place opens October 17.
PARTICIPATORY SESSIONS
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