At Parkteatret (the old cinema at Grünerlkka) you will find an exciting theater company that has performed a number of interesting plays. Nordic Black Theater is a drama school specifically aimed at young people with origins in Third World countries. It readily experiments with alternative methods and forms of expression. This is a good place to visit if you are looking for a different and unusual theatrical experience.
Inspired by the Norwegian wilderness, the Oslo Opera House is a marvel of modern architecture and the home of the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. The glass facade of the playhouse is embraced by a marble roof that swoops down to its base in a graceful arch, inviting the audience to take a walk on the roof and drink in sweeping views of the waterfront. Inside, the spacious hall is a tapestry of textures and patterns designed by local artists; a visual and tactile experience that mimics the country's natural wonders. The concert hall itself is illuminated by a moon-like chandelier of hand-cast glass bars, beneath which sprawls a horseshoe chamber replete in wood. On stage, the Oslo Opera House hosts a diverse program of the performing arts, showcasing classical performances alongside contemporary renditions by some of the world's best-known artists. A cultural and artistic pearl, the Oslo Opera House is a contemporary wonder that was built to be touched by the masses.
Holmenkollbakken on the west side of the city is famous for the enormous ski jump that can be seen from just about everywhere in Oslo. The most popular sports arena in Norway, Holmenkollen also contains the world's oldest Ski Museum and an exciting ski-simulator (on which visitors can try out the Holmenkollen ski jump themselves!). Holmenkollen hosts a variety of winter sports events, culminating in the annual ski festival in March. Even those not interested in winter sports should not miss the chance to enjoy the spectacular panoramic view of the city.
Det Norske Teatret is the only theater in Oslo where all the plays are presented in Nynorsk (contemporary Norwegian), the country's second written language. During the last few years it has been the most popular theater in Norway. The large, modern theater building also hosts exhibitions, Saturday matinees, and "Poems at Lunchtime" (daily in the Bistro). The theater has three stages and is equipped with an IR system for those in need of a hearing aid.
The National Theater, steeped in tradition, is located by Karl Johans Gate and is something of a national symbol. The theater hosts mainly - but not exclusively - Norwegian plays and a mix of classics and more modern works. The National Theater celebrated its hundredth anniversary in 1999. On site you will also find a café, as well as equipment for those with hearing difficulties. Guided tours can be arranged.
The Norwegian Music School at Majorstua puts on regular concerts all year round. The performances (many of which are actually exams) are given by the students and are often free of charge to the general public. The program is varied and also includes premieres and special events that take place in the 200-seat Lindeman Hall or the 100-seat Levin Hall. Most major concerts are advertised in the local press while details of smaller concerts appear on the school's website. In general, the concerts are of an extremely high standard.
A prominent name in the cultural scene of Oslo, Grusomhetens Teater has been enthralling the patrons of the city since 1989. This theater has a reputation for producing stellar original productions that cater to people of all tastes and is an ideal spot to experience local talent and entertainment first hand. Grusomhetens Teater has also toured many countries and awed people with their compelling productions worldwide.
Serving as the home turf for the Vålerenga Fotball Club, Intility Arena is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and holds a capacity of seating over 16,000 spectators at once. Skirted by bleachers that are shaded from the scorching sun by rafters, the arena has witnessed a bevy of exhilarating games within its confines. Its construction stemmed from a longstanding desire to own a venue the football club could call home. It was inaugurated in 2017.
At Parkteatret (the old cinema at Grünerlkka) you will find an exciting theater company that has performed a number of interesting plays. Nordic Black Theater is a drama school specifically aimed at young people with origins in Third World countries. It readily experiments with alternative methods and forms of expression. This is a good place to visit if you are looking for a different and unusual theatrical experience.