The Cabinet Sessions #3

The Cabinet Sessions return! On 5 September, the courtyard of the Rubenhuis will once again serve as a backdrop for an exclusive evening, with live music, a great ambience, and cultural surprises. The musical star of the evening is none other than Jef Neve!   

More than just a pianist, Jef Neve believes in breaking through the boundaries of different musical genres, reshaping them in all kinds of surprising ways. Like Rubens in his day, Jef Neve is a tireless innovator.  

At 8.30 pm 

Alternative times on rainy days 

During the 3rd iteration of The Cabinet Sessions, Jef Neve will surprise his audience with an exclusive live performance that was specially developed for the courtyard of the Rubenshuis. What to expect? You’ll have to wait until the day itself for all to be revealed. What we do know: Jef Neve will not be giving a solo performance. He will be flanked by countertenor Benjamin Abel Meirhaeghe, artistic director of Toneelhuis, and soundscape wizz Laurens Mariën. Together, they will explore the interfaces between classical music, theatre and electronics.  

Starts at 7.30 pm, 9.45 pm and 10.30 pm  

Talented actor Mil Sinaeve graduated from the Royal Antwerp Conservatoire in 2024. In Pieter-Paul-Pied-De-Stalle, his new theatrical production, Mil will walk in Rubens’s shoes, reflecting on the artist’s life. Which artistic and personal choices did Rubens make, and how did these have an impact on his life? During this try-out, Mil will share an exclusive, intimate fragment of this production with the audience. 

Continuous, from 7 pm until 11 pm 

Do you have a question? Want to know more about the garden, library or Rubens Experience? Our Rubens storytellers are at your service throughout the evening. They’re easy to spot with their green badge. Don’t hesitate to bombard them with your questions! 

Continuous, from 7 pm until 11 pm  

The pavilion in Rubens’s garden is one of the last original structures to be built in the artist’s lifetime. Formerly designed as a place for reflection, it has since become a hidden gem, rich in stories. Curious to hear what such a meaningful place has to share? Our expert will take you to the pavilion and tell you about its hidden secrets, the story of Hercules, and the many surprising details. Look and discover! 

Continuous, from 7 pm until 11 pm  

Did you know that in the 17th century, thyme was prized for its medicinal properties? And that rosemary symbolised remembrance and friendship? In Rubens’s time, you would have found herbs in the kitchen as well as in people’s first aid kits. In this hands-on workshop, you make your own herb butter with herbs from Rubens’s garden. Taste, smell, mix, and take home your very own creation! 

Continuous, from 7 pm until 11 pm 

Need a break? Order a drink at the bar or tuck into a freshly baked pizza from Mariello. Our DJ will create the ideal soundtrack for your evening. 

When?

• Friday 5 September 2025 from 7 pm until 11 pm
• Doors: 6.45 pm 

Price

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Every year, the Rubens House presents the key to the cabinet to an inspiring curator. In 2025, B-Classic takes visitors on a journey into their world. B-Classic facilitates encounters between artists, genres and audiences. It breaks down the boundaries of classical music and explores how music, both past and present, was and is created and experienced. B-Classic makes room for artists and makers, giving them the space they need to research, create, and present their work.