Varg i Veum play performance at Det norske teater in 1915

Det Norske Teatret

Det Norske Teatret Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Oslo Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Det Norske Teatret, located in the heart of Oslo, stands as a beacon of Norway’s theatrical tradition and linguistic heritage. Since its founding in 1912, the theatre has championed Nynorsk—the lesser-used of Norway’s two official written languages—while evolving into a leading institution celebrated for artistic innovation, social engagement, and cultural diversity. Whether you are a theatre enthusiast, a cultural tourist, or simply interested in Oslo’s historical sites, Det Norske Teatret promises a unique cultural experience that reflects Norway’s evolving identity and performing arts landscape.

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, amenities, historical context, and nearby attractions, ensuring you make the most of your visit. For the latest updates on performances and visitor services, refer to the official website (Det Norske Teatret) and local cultural resources (Oslo.com Theatre & Dance).

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visiting Information
Architectural Highlights
Cultural and Artistic Significance
Special Events, Guided Tours, and Education
Nearby Oslo Historical Sites
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Call to Action
Useful Links and References

Scene from the 1915 Norwegian play Varg i Veum at Det Norske Teater

Scene from the 1915 play 'Varg i Veum' at Det norske teater, featuring actors in period costumes

Scene photograph from Det Norske Teatret's 1916 production of Bolettes bryllupsferd

Scene from the 1916 Norwegian play Bolettes bryllupsferd at Det Norske teatret

Black and white photograph of the Norwegian Theatre in 1916 with people gathered outside

Det Norske Teater historic performance Kongeglima 1916 Oslo

Exterior view of Det Norske Teater in Oslo, Norway, 1916

Historic photo of Det Norske Teater theater performance Kongeglima in 1916 Oslo

Norwegian actors Ingjald Haaland and Dagmar Myhrvold performing in Halvor Floden's play Gamlehagen at Det Norske Teatret in 1931

1921 stage photo from Det norske teatret Oslo showing Halvor Floden's play Staalboraren

1921 stage photo from Det norske teatret showing actors performing Halvor Floden's play Staalboraren in Oslo

1921 stage photo of Halvor Floden's play 'Staalboraren' at Det norske teatret in Oslo

1921 stage scene from Halvor Floden's play 'Staalboraren' at Det norske teatret, Oslo

1921 black and white stage photo of Halvor Floden's play Staalboraren at Det norske teatret in Oslo

1921 stage photo from Det norske teatret in Oslo showing actors performing Halvor Floden's play 'Staalboraren'

Portrait of Jeppe Aakjær, Danish poet and novelist

Portrait of Jeppe Aakjær black and white photo

Lars Tvinde and Johanne Bruhn in a scene from Bolettes bryllupsferd at Det Norske Teatret, 1916

View of Oslo city with buildings and waterfront under a partly cloudy sky

Stortingsgata 16 Oslo historical commercial building

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Years (1912–1920s)

Det Norske Teatret was established in 1912 during a movement to elevate Nynorsk in Norwegian culture. Cultural pioneers Hulda and Arne Garborg, along with actor Edvard Drabløs, envisioned the theatre as a prestigious platform for Nynorsk. The first productions, including Ervingen by Ivar Aasen and Rationelt Fjøsstell by Hulda Garborg, set the tone for the theatre’s commitment to linguistic diversity. The opening of the theatre in Oslo in 1913, marked by a performance of Holberg’s Jeppe på berget attended by King Haakon VII and the Prime Minister, underscored its national significance.

Growth and Cultural Role (1930s–1970s)

Throughout the mid-20th century, Det Norske Teatret solidified its role as a cornerstone of Norwegian culture—transitioning from a touring company to a permanent institution in central Oslo. Its mission expanded to include the promotion of Norwegian drama and international works translated into Nynorsk. The theatre’s home at Kristian IVs gate 8 now features multiple stages, accommodating a diverse and simultaneous repertoire. Noteworthy productions, such as the 1979 musical Så lenge skuta kan gå, which earned a Spellemannprisen, demonstrated the theatre’s impact on Norwegian performing arts.

Artistic Innovation and Contemporary Relevance (1980s–Present)

Remaining at the forefront of artistic experimentation, Det Norske Teatret currently stages 12–20 productions annually, ranging from new Norwegian drama to international classics. Its ongoing collaboration with Nobel laureate Jon Fosse, including the 2025 world premiere of Einkvan, highlights its commitment to innovative Norwegian theatre. Under the direction of Erik Ulfsby and incoming director Kjersti Horn, the theatre prioritizes diversity and inclusion, exemplified by the “Det multinorske” initiative and its drama school for individuals with multicultural backgrounds.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

Box Office:
Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM until the start of the evening performance
(Hours may be extended on performance days; check the official site for updates.)
Performance Times:
Evening shows: typically 7:00–7:30 PM
Matinees: often at 2:00 PM

Tickets and Booking

Purchase Options:
Online via the official website, by phone (+47 22 42 43 44), or at the box office.
Pricing:
Varies by production and seating; student, senior, and group discounts available.
Ticket Types:
E-tickets accepted via mobile device or printout.
Contact:
[email protected]

Getting There & Accessibility

Address: Kristian IVs gate 8, 0164 Oslo
Public Transport: Tram (Tinghuset), Metro (Stortinget/Nationaltheatret), Train (Nationaltheatret)
Parking: Sentrum P-hus (Munchs gate entrance) and accessible parking on Kristian IVs gate

Accessibility:

Step-free access to designated rows in all stages
Reserved wheelchair spaces (advance reservation recommended)
IR hearing system and headphones available for hearing-impaired guests
Accessible restrooms and cloakrooms
Detailed accessibility info

Visitor Amenities

Cloakrooms: Unattended, lockers available in main and secondary foyers
Dining: SUR by De Mi Tierra (restaurant) and Bikuben bar (drinks allowed in the auditorium in plastic cups)
Programs: Digital programs with ticket purchase; select printed programs available at main stage premieres
Shop: Souvenirs, books, scripts, and memorabilia
Podcasts: Behind-the-scenes content related to current productions

Architectural Highlights

Det Norske Teatret’s modern building, opened in 1985 at Kristian IVs gate, features three main performance spaces—Hovudscenen, Scene 2, and Scene 3—each designed for flexibility and accessibility. The striking façade and contemporary interiors make it an architectural highlight in Oslo’s city center.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

Language and Identity

From its inception, Det Norske Teatret has been a “showcase for Nynorsk in the capital.” Its productions elevate Nynorsk and Norwegian dialects, supporting linguistic diversity and cultural identity. Collaboration with NRK has helped establish a Nynorsk broadcasting norm.

Repertoire and Innovation

The theatre presents a diverse mix of Norwegian and international drama, musicals, and music theatre, producing around 20 premieres annually and attracting over 260,000 visitors each year. It has introduced Norwegian audiences to international hits such as “Cats,” “Les Misérables,” and “The Book of Mormon,” while nurturing original Norwegian musicals and championing contemporary playwrights like Jon Fosse and Arne Lygre (Heddadagene).

Det Norske Teatret addresses social and political issues, engages multicultural and youth audiences (notably through its Rommen Scene), and offers a drama school for talents from diverse backgrounds. Its programming is recognized for promoting inclusion and reflecting Oslo’s multicultural reality.

Special Events, Guided Tours, and Education

Guided Tours: Offered occasionally, showcasing the theatre’s history, architecture, and backstage areas (check schedule on the official website).
Workshops and Education: Programs for schools and groups focus on theatre arts, language, and heritage.
Special Events: Includes talkbacks, workshops, masterclasses, and collaborations with festivals such as Norsk Dramatikkfestival (Heddadagene), as well as themed evenings and family-friendly programming.

Nearby Oslo Historical Sites

Combine your theatre visit with nearby attractions:

Royal Palace and Palace Park
National Gallery
Akershus Fortress
Oslo Cathedral
Karl Johans gate (main street with shops and cafes)
National Theatre and other cultural venues

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Box office is open Monday–Friday 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, Saturdays from 11:00 AM until showtime. Performance times vary; check online for current schedules.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online, by phone, or at the box office. E-tickets and printouts are accepted.

Q: Is the theatre wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free access, reserved spaces, and accessible facilities.

Q: Are there discounts?
A: Yes, for students, seniors, and groups.

Q: Are performances in English?
A: Most are in Nynorsk; some have English summaries or surtitles—confirm details before booking.

Q: Are food and drinks allowed inside?
A: Drinks from the bar in plastic cups are permitted inside the auditorium.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, occasionally—check the website for schedule and booking.

Summary and Call to Action

Det Norske Teatret is a cornerstone of Norwegian culture, uniting language, art, and community in a vibrant city-center setting. With accessible facilities, a rich and varied program, and proximity to Oslo’s historical landmarks, it is a must-visit for locals and international visitors alike.

Plan your visit: