Shapiro at Scala Tapas Theater
14 May, 2026
What if you could order a taster platter of theater shows, and in between order a taster platter of tapas? That’s the concept of Scala Tapas Theater in Amsterdam. Upstairs they have tapas dining. Downstairs they have four small performing spaces. Each space seats about 20 people, and each show lasts about 20 minutes. If you know the summer theater festival ‘De Parade’? It’s like an indoor version of that.
I heard about this place from a fellow comedian, and it sounded fun. For the audience, you come in, you order some appetizers. They call your name to go downstairs and watch a mini show. Then you go back up to have your second course. And some of the tapas come from an old-fashioned “automaat” wall. Fun!
For the Artist, you show up, you have a bite to eat. Then you play 3 × 20 minutes throughout the evening. For about 20 people. It’s not for everyone. But for me – artistically – this is a very handy way to test and develop material. My background is in improvisation, so for me it’s not weird to perform in what is basically someone’s living room. In fact, I’ve played for these quirky Dutch mini festivals like huiskamerfestival (literally living rooms) or studentenkamerfestival (students’ living rooms).
The entrepreneur who developed this idea is Tessa Harmsen. Tessa explained how she worked for years at formal Dutch theaters with plush red seats – but not much spontaneity. She wanted to create a more welcoming environment for her guests. And for the artists, she wanted to create a platform for new talent (fresh from their studies) to try out their material in a live theater setting. The acts include standup, singing, magic, musical theater, storytelling and clowning. And even a murder mystery. It’s so fun to do!
Have a look:
https://www.scala-amsterdam.nl/en/voorstellingen
For more Greg Upcoming Shows:
https://gregshapiro.nl/greg-shapiro-upcoming-comedy-shows/