Folketeateret

Folketeatret (also spelled Folketeateret) is a large theatre in central Oslo, on the square Youngstorget. The building dates from 1935 and has had an unusual life: it has been a cinema, a home for the national opera, and today it is Norway's largest privately owned theatre, with about 1,400 seats.

Where did the idea for Folketeatret come from?

The concept was inspired by Berlin's Freie Deutsche Volksbühne, a movement for theatre open to wide audiences. Interest groups formed in Bergen in 1928 and in Oslo in 1929 to bring a similar stage to Norway. The name, which means "the people's theatre", reflects that ambition.

Who designed the building?

Architects Christian Morgenstierne and Arne Eide designed it, and it was completed in 1935. Because of financial problems, the auditorium served as a cinema from the start. The Verdensteatret cinema opened there in December 1935 while a solution for theatre operations was awaited. The Labour Party (Arbeiderpartiet) has also had its headquarters in the building since 1935.

What were the early theatre years like?

The theatre opened in 1952 with the production "Tante Ulrikke". Hans Jacob Nilsen led it until 1955, followed by Jens Gundersen until 1959. By 1959 the finances no longer allowed it to continue independently, so it merged with Det Nye Teater to form Oslo Nye Teater.

The opera years

From 1959 to 2007 the building housed the Norwegian Opera, which is one reason it holds an important place in the capital's cultural history. The building was listed as protected in 2009.

The theatre returns

Folketeateret reopened as a private venture. It was officially inaugurated on 19 March 2009 with the opening night of the musical Mamma Mia!. Sceneweb describes it as Norway's largest privately owned theatre. The commonly given capacity is 1,400 seats, although Store norske leksikon mentions 1,200 seats for the original hall.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Folketeatret?

In central Oslo on Youngstorget square, at roughly 59.914 N, 10.751 E, a short walk from the main downtown streets.

How many seats does it have?

About 1,400 according to Wikipedia and Sceneweb, making it one of the largest theatre auditoriums in Oslo.

Was the building once an opera house?

Yes, the Norwegian Opera was based here from 1959 to 2007.

Is the building protected?

Yes, it was listed as protected in 2009.

What is worth seeing?

The 1930s building itself and the theatre's programme. Check the theatre's website for current shows, including musicals, before visiting.