LAB-1

LAB-1 is one of the most international venues in Eindhoven. On the Keizersgracht in the city centre, it calls itself the cosiest retro cinema in town, with several rooms for film, music, comedy, club nights, quizzes and events. For internationals it is especially known for one thing: comedy and films in English.

Cinema with subtitles

LAB-1 shows a mix of new releases, classics, cult films and themed movie nights in a retro setting. Films are shown in their original language with subtitles, and the listing tells you whether the subtitles are Dutch ("NL SUBS") or English ("ENG SUBS"). That makes LAB-1 one of the few cinemas where non-English films are regularly shown with English subtitles, which is great if you don't read Dutch. Around Halloween and other occasions there are themed movie nights, and LAB-1 also hosts film festivals.

Comedy in English

LAB-1 is the home of Bell's Comedy Club, an English-language stand-up night aimed at internationals in and around Eindhoven. The nights are hosted by Stephen Bell, an Irish comedian based in the region, who selects the comedians: a mix of performers from the Netherlands and abroad, sometimes with a talent spot for new names. The shows take place roughly twice a month on Friday or Saturday evenings, start at 21:00 and last about two hours.

LAB-1 also books touring comedians from around the world, in English and other languages, and Dutch comedy.

Quizzes, club nights and more

The programme goes far beyond film and comedy. Think pub quizzes, music bingo, club nights, live music, talks and themed parties. Because of the many international events, it is a good place to meet people, especially if you are new in the city.

Good to know

• Language: check the event page for the language of shows and the subtitles of films.
• Age rating: some events, such as Bell's Comedy Club, have an age rating (12+). Check the event page.
• Tickets: most events sell tickets online in advance; popular comedy nights sell out.
• Bar: LAB-1 has a bar, so you can have a drink before and after the show.

Why internationals love LAB-1

For many people who have just moved to Eindhoven, LAB-1 is one of the first places where they feel at home. Films with English subtitles, comedy in English, quizzes and club nights with a mixed crowd: it is a venue where you don't need to speak Dutch to join in. The comedy nights in particular attract a lot of internationals, which makes them a good place to make new friends.

Tips for your visit

• Check the subtitles before you buy a film ticket: look for "ENG SUBS".
• Book comedy early. Bell's Comedy Club and touring comedians often sell out.
• Arrive before the doors open if you want a good seat for comedy.
• Combine with dinner in the city centre: the Markt and the Kleine Berg are within walking distance.

Getting there

LAB-1 is at Keizersgracht 19, in the city centre, about a ten-minute walk from Eindhoven Centraal. There are bike racks nearby, and car parks in the city centre. The bus stop Keizersgracht is close by.

See all comedy and theatre and film in Eindhoven, or our guide to nightlife.