Culture beat – May 23

A fake museum in the EU quarter presents a chilling vision of the European Union collapsing in 2018. From the viewpoint of 2060, the depressing thesis by Brussels theatre director Thomas Bellinck attempts to deconstruct where the European model went wrong: increasing Euroscepticism and nationalism as Europe reverts to its former feuding are cited. The House of European History Exile is housed in a three-floored derelict boarding school. It opened ironically on Europe Day and continues until June15 as part of the Tok Toc Knock festival, organised by KVS.

It’s that time of year again and, even though the weather won’t play ball, the Brussels Jazz Marathon is upon us: 400 artists and 125 concerts over three days. And it’s all absolutely free! The four outdoor stages are situated at the Grand Place, Place du Sablon, Place Sainte-Catherine Square and Place Fernand Cocq but, for a more intimate – and, indeed, drier – feel, you may want to check out the small, indoor venues all around the centre of town. The pick of the bunch is pianist extraordinaire Ivory Duss & His Sharp Keys (pictured), playing at the NH Grand Sablon on Saturday.

Joining the nation’s hope for a scrap of congenial weather is the annual picnic and music festivities in Astrid Park, Anderlecht on Saturday. The afternoon of free family activities ranges from a French-Dutch show (Moi et Théo/Ik en den Théo!) by Jeunesses musicales, fun and sporting animations, for all ages, circus workshop and food and refreshment stands.

Brigitte Handley is one of Australia’s best-kept secrets, although with each European and North American tour undertaken by her Goth-punk band The Dark Shadows, her reputation grows as a captivating front-woman and accomplished singer-guitarist. Friday’s solo acoustic date at Rock Classic will see her perform hidden gems from the Dark Shadows’ back catalogue as well as new material from the Shads’ forthcoming album.

Outside Brussels

It’s also picnic time in Tervuren Park  with The Australia Society this Sunday. The seasoned alfresco gang invite you to bring your football, cricket bat and some decent weather! From midday onwards.

Creating a mini paradise in the beautiful setting of the Middelheim Museum are seven leading national and international contemporary artists. The veritable garden of Eden was the inspiration for the group show My Little Paradise, curated by Hans Op de Beeck and Sara Weyns, from May 26 to September 15. Contributing artists are David Altmejd, John Cale, Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller, Carsten Höller, Op de Beeck, Pascale Marthine Tayou and Leon Vranken.