No fuel, no fire
Phoenix is a home and springboard for musical talent in and around Breda. Offering a diverse range of concerts, jam sessions and workshops for a broad audience. And with a strong social focus: more than 150 volunteers and a youth worker make Phoenix a place to develop, build confidence and meet new people.
Everyone onto the stage
Everyone on stage, that's the mission. And it can be anything, Peter explains. “Your first time singing during karaoke night, joining a jam session, attending a band workshop, or supporting a bigger act in the opening slot with your band.” The bands often form spontaneously – at Phoenix. “That’s what our community is largely for: connecting with each other. Our notice board is full of messages and it works like clockwork.”
We are also building something here that goes beyond just music. Phoenix is a network of people who work together to build something greater. And you can feel that collective energy. “End of the evening, after a big show, the hall full, twenty volunteers working – and afterwards everyone together at the bar. That feels so good. Like, we really pulled this off *together*.”
But it’s certainly also about the small things. That first time on stage, a new band name on the notice board, someone who, after weeks of hesitation, finally picks up the microphone. Those are the sparks, the fuel. And without fuel, no fire.”
A safe place to try
Phoenix likes to keep the barrier low. For some, just stepping inside is a big step; for others, the first time on stage can be quite nerve-wracking. That's why there is a conscious focus on the community. Because when you feel at home somewhere and are surrounded by like-minded people, you dare to do more and go further.
“We organize all sorts here. From game nights to band workshops. And our youth worker Afra is truly invaluable. She picks up on signals, talks with those who are struggling, connects people with each other, and is present at our activities to give you that little extra push. Together, we create a safe, energetic environment where ‘doing’ is more important than ‘perfect’.”
That approach works. “People come in as visitors and a year later, they’re walking around here as volunteers, technicians, or singers. They discover they can do so much more than they thought.”
Built by tenacious people
The roots of Phoenix lie in youth culture centre Popcorner. At a time when many youth centres closed down, the Popcorner core remained standing – thanks to a large group of volunteers. “We had to move, rebuild, move again… and keep rising from the ashes. The name ‘Phoenix’ was an immediate hit, you understand.”
Since Phoenix moved into the Stokvishallen, the initiative has gained more stability. “It feels like coming home here – and we really hope we can stay here. The community is solid as a rock, in any case.”
The community now has over 150 volunteers: ranging from technicians and bar staff to programmers and communications team members. The youngest is sixteen, and the oldest is approaching seventy-five. “When you give responsibility and trust, you see people grow. No matter how young you are, you are fully involved here. Whether as a floor manager, in technical roles, or in programming an evening.”
Phoenix is always looking for volunteers. So if you love music and feel inspired to contribute something yourself?
City of musical experimentation
Live music needs to regain its place in the city, believes Peter. “Live music is genuine. And we will need it more and more, in a world that is becoming ever more polished and individualised. An evening on stage, or in the audience - it's about experiencing something together, that's only there at that moment. It energises and connects.”
In this ambition, Phoenix is happy to look beyond its own venue. We want to join forces, here in Breda. With parties like Mezz, Nieuwe Veste, Breda Beats, education... And simply, with everyone who has ‘something’ with music. Let’s together make Breda the city of musical experimentation. A place where you come to try, to fall flat on your face, to start again and to ignite.”
