Oslo Opera House: please walk on the roof

Enjoy free seating

The Norwegian nature is free for everyone to walk in, and The Oslo Opera House, which opened in 2008, was built as an extension to this idea.

Usually, you are likely to be arrested if you walk on rooftops. This new building in the very epicentre of the capital of Norway feels like the complete opposite of the usual “Please don’t touch” culture tourists are often met with worldwide. The subtle variations in the structure of the marble-embellished roof is signed by Norwegian artists Kristian Blystad, Kalle Grude and Jorunn Sannes, and is truly a beautiful surface meant to be stepped on.

Please keep in mind that under your feet there are three highly differently designed scenes, a myriad of public rooms and halls to explore, and a vibrant workplace for more than 600 opera and ballet professionals.

This structure made for walking also offers an unexpectedly cool sit-down experience. The innovative physique of the Opera House with its marble-covered roof will unveil surprisingly different angles of the city you have come to visit.

On your right: The fjord archipelago with small, traditional wooden summer houses painted in bright, optimistic colours. To your left: A quick scenery over the city core of Oslo. And further behind: The many fairytale-like shaped hills and mountains which embraces Oslo, the fastest-growing capital in Europe.

Throughout the year, The Oslo Opera House hosts a large variety of outdoor plays, concerts and other events. As a bonus, the structure of the building has given the waterfront back to citizens and visitors.

Enter the playroom

Make an early arrival before the play begins and guests commence to fill the hall. Explore that special silence of great expectations that occurs before it all starts. The for an Opera House unusual wooden theme is a soft reminder of Norwegian nature and history.

The intimate horseshoe shape of The Main Hall hints to the origins of classic theatres. The design of the theatre’s main curtain is signed by artist Pae White.

Full moon experience

The central chandelier is created of hand-cast glass bars lit from behind by LED lights. When lit or turned of, it has a moon-like presence.

Get close to the stars

The often massive media attention created by the architecture of the Opera House has helped attracting internationally renowned opera and ballet performers to Oslo. The ever changing ensemble constantly consists of a fruitful combination of highly acclaimed national and international performers.

The purposely set intimacy of the theatre layout enables you as a guest to get close to the performing stars of which you have come to experience.

Stretch your imagination

A classical piece of opera or ballet should stay true to the origins of its interpretation, if you ask some. Others would like to see a brave new take on it. In this house, you will find both, and since the opening in 2008, The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet has been known for its variety.

Enter the stage

Get lost

The Opera House has a huge inner space with spectacular designs, that is open to the public. In order to create unusual surfaces, architects at Snøhetta worked with artists. One of many examples of astonishing design by different artists is the perforated cladding created by artist Olafur Eliasson.

Your turn to play

Come visit the building that was not particularly inspired by previously built landmarks, but rather by Norwegian nature.

People from all over the world have come to walk on the roof and to experience various performances — now it’s your turn to come here and play.