1748–1874: Early Foundations
The Royal Danish Theatre opened in 1748 as the king’s theatre, but from the outset, it embraced the ideals of the Enlightenment by welcoming the public (GoComGo). Designed by Nicolai Eigtved, the original venue seated about 800 people and quickly became a center for drama, opera, ballet, and concerts.
The institution’s early decades saw the establishment of the Royal Danish Ballet School (1771) and the vocal academy (1773), nurturing a generation of Danish artists. The Royal Danish Orchestra, with roots dating to 1448, further cemented the theatre’s international stature.
Expansion and Modernization
The Old Stage (1874)
By the mid-19th century, growing audiences and evolving art forms necessitated a new building. The current Old Stage, designed by William Dahlerup in a Historicist style, was inaugurated in 1874. Its opulent Baroque interiors and grand auditorium continue to host major ballet and opera productions (VisitCopenhagen).
The Opera House (2005)
In 2005, the Copenhagen Opera House opened on Holmen Island, thanks to a generous donation from the A.P. Møller Foundation. Henning Larsen’s architectural design features 41,000 square meters of state-of-the-art facilities and a dramatic waterfront presence (VisitCopenhagen).
The Royal Danish Playhouse (2008)
The Royal Danish Playhouse, completed in 2008, was designed by Lundgaard & Tranberg. Situated on the harborfront, it is praised for its blending of glass, copper, and wood, offering panoramic city and harbor views (Architectuul, Copenhagen Architecture).
The Three Main Venues
The Old Stage
- Location Kongens Nytorv, city center
- Architecture Lavish Baroque interiors, neoclassical façade
- Performances Classical ballet (notably Bournonville works), opera, orchestral concerts
- Capacity Approx. 1,600 seats
- Visitor Tip Arrive early to appreciate the historic foyer and grand staircase
The Opera House
- Location Holmen Island, accessible by water taxi, bus, or bridges
- Architecture Modernist design, glass façade, cantilevered roof
- Performances Grand opera, orchestral concerts, contemporary dance
- Capacity About 1,700 seats
- Visitor Tip Dine at the on-site restaurant with harbor views before the show
The Royal Danish Playhouse
- Location Frederiksstaden waterfront, near Nyhavn
- Architecture Contemporary glass-and-copper structure
- Performances Danish and international drama, experimental theatre
- Stages Main Stage (650 seats), Mellemgulvet (220), Studio Stage (110)
- Visitor Tip Enjoy a stroll on the public promenade or attend free events in the foyer
Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
- Old Stage Guided tours Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; performances mainly in evenings and weekends
- Opera House Guided tours daily 11:00 AM–3:00 PM; performances as scheduled; box office open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Playhouse Foyer open daily 10:00 AM–8:00 PM; guided tours and shows as scheduled
Always check the official website for up-to-date hours, especially during holidays or special events.
Tickets & Booking
- Purchase Buy tickets online via the Royal Danish Theatre website, in person at venue box offices, or by phone
- Pricing State-subsidized, starting around 150–400 DKK depending on venue, performance, and seating
- Discounts Available for students, youth, seniors, and families
- Guided Tours Booking in advance is recommended for behind-the-scenes tours
Accessibility
All venues are wheelchair accessible, with designated seating, accessible restrooms, and hearing assistance devices. Special arrangements can be made for visitors with visual or hearing impairments—contact the box office ahead of your visit.
Getting There
- Public Transport Easily accessible via metro (Kongens Nytorv station), bus, and bicycle
- Parking Limited; public transport is recommended
- Nearby Attractions Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, National Museum, and the city’s waterfront are within walking distance
Special Events and Guided Tours
The Royal Danish Theatre regularly hosts royal galas, premieres, and festivals, including the annual CPH STAGE festival. Guided tours provide exclusive backstage access and historical insights, with English-language options available in summer. Popular photo spots include the Old Stage foyer, the Opera House’s glass façade, and the Playhouse’s panoramic harbor views.
Artistic Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Royal Danish Theatre is integral to Denmark’s cultural identity. It nurtured luminaries like Hans Christian Andersen and continues to be a crucible for world-class dancers, singers, and musicians. The Royal Danish Ballet’s Bournonville tradition, the historic orchestra, and the theatre’s commitment to both classical and contemporary works have shaped Danish and European performing arts (VisitCopenhagen).
Notable Milestones
- 1748 Theatre founded at Kongens Nytorv
- 1771/1773 Ballet school and vocal academy established
- 1874 Inauguration of the Old Stage
- 2005 Opening of the Copenhagen Opera House
- 2008 Completion of the Royal Danish Playhouse
- Ongoing Continued innovation, royal patronage, and international collaborations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Royal Danish Theatre’s visiting hours?
A: Vary by venue, but typically 10:00 AM–6:00 PM Monday–Saturday. Always check the official calendar for specifics.
Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online, at box offices, or by phone. Early booking is suggested for high-demand performances.
Q: Are guided tours offered?
A: Yes, guided tours are available at all venues, often in both Danish and English.
Q: Is the theatre accessible?
A: Yes, all venues have wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, and hearing assistance.
Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: Nyhavn, Amalienborg Palace, the National Museum, and the waterfront promenade.
Plan Your Visit
- Consult the official season calendar for performance and tour schedules
- Book tickets early, especially for popular productions like The Nutcracker and festival events
- Explore guided tours for a deeper historical and architectural experience
- Combine your theatre visit with a stroll through Copenhagen’s historic center
Stay updated by downloading the Audiala app and following the Royal Danish Theatre on social media for news, digital tickets, and special offers.
