National Theatre Oslo

The National Theatre in Oslo (Norwegian: Nationaltheatret) is one of Norway's most important drama theatres and one of the best-known buildings in the capital's centre. It stands near Studenterlunden, between Karl Johans gate and the Royal Palace, and for more than a century it has been the place where classic and contemporary Norwegian stage work meet.

When was the National Theatre in Oslo built?

Construction began in 1891 and the theatre officially opened on 1 September 1899. It was designed by architect Henrik Bull (1864-1953), who won the commission in an architectural competition. The Studenterlunden site was personally backed by Henrik Ibsen and Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson in 1888, after an earlier proposed location met objections from the university.

The opening was spread over three days in September. On the first, selected pieces by Ludvig Holberg were performed; on the second, Ibsen's An Enemy of the People; on the third, Bjørnson's Sigurd Jorsalfar. Ibsen and his wife Suzannah attended the celebrations.

Why does the theatre matter so much in Norway?

The theatre has a deep connection with Ibsen, and his plays have been staged here almost every year since it opened. Emperor and Galilean had its premiere on this stage in 1903. The building also hosts the biennial International Ibsen Festival. Statues of Ibsen and Bjørnson flank the main entrance, and Ibsen's name appears on the facade.

The institution's early years were not easy. It began as a private theatre and went through several financial crises. Only in 1929 did the state begin to support it, at first with modest funding.

What does the building look like?

The building mixes historicist styles, with descriptions pointing to neo-baroque and neo-renaissance elements. The facade is made of yellow brick and granite. According to sceneweb.no, the main auditorium is in a neo-rococo style. The theatre has been remodelled several times; it underwent renovation in 1980-1984 and, after reopening in 1985, was inaugurated with Peer Gynt.

What should you know before visiting?

The theatre has several stages. Sources list them differently, but most mention the main stage (Hovedscenen), Malersalen and smaller halls within the building. Check the theatre's official website for the current programme and ticket availability. Performances are usually in Norwegian, so visitors who do not speak the language should check beforehand whether a production offers subtitles or translation.

Even without a ticket it is worth stopping by. The building sits in the heart of the city, so it is easy to combine a visit with a walk around the area, and the statues of Norway's two great dramatists at the entrance make a good photo spot.

Frequently asked questions

Who designed the National Theatre in Oslo? Henrik Bull, who won the architectural competition in 1891.

When did it open? On 1 September 1899.

Are Ibsen's plays performed here? Yes, his dramas appear in the repertoire almost every year, and the International Ibsen Festival takes place here every two years.

Is the theatre state-funded? It began as a private institution; state support started in 1929.

Where exactly is it? In central Oslo, near Studenterlunden, along the city's main promenade.