Reykjavík
Icelandic performing arts

National Theatre of Iceland

Discover exceptional performing arts, drama, and contemporary dance in Reykjavíkurborg.

ArtMusicLocal heritage

Experience Iceland's premier performing arts venue, hosting a diverse repertoire of classical drama, contemporary plays, musicals, and operas across multiple stages in downtown Reykjavík.

Iceland's flagship national theater, staging world-class plays, musicals, and opera performances across multiple downtown stages.

National Theatre of Iceland
About the National Theatre of Iceland

The National Theatre of Iceland in Reykjavík is the country's flagship performing arts institution and a vital cultural hub. It presents a rich selection of classical dramas, modern local works, musicals, and operas across multiple distinct stages. By collaborating closely with domestic and international artists, this historic venue fosters local talent and hosts diverse productions year-round.

Gray concrete building with vertical architectural fins along the facade, steps leading to the entrance, and cars parked in front
National Theatre of Iceland opening hours in Reykjavík

Check today’s opening status, weekly schedule, and special date changes for National Theatre of Iceland. Use these opening hours to plan your arrival and avoid closed times in Reykjavík.

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
14:00-18:00
14:00-18:00
14:00-18:00
14:00-18:00
14:00-18:00
12:00-18:00
12:00-18:00
Visitor Amenities and Accessibility at the National Theatre of Iceland

The National Theatre of Iceland offers a range of facilities designed to support a comfortable and inclusive visit, including onsite ticket services, refreshment areas, and a specialized theatre bookshop. The building is equipped with elevator access and dedicated ramps, with specific provisions such as hearing loops and designated wheelchair spaces available for patrons. While general accessibility is well-supported, visitors should note that some services, such as sign language interpretation and subtitled performances, are available on a limited basis for select productions.

Accessible parking

Available

Accessible toilet

Limited

Hearing loops (Tónmöskvar)

Available

Elevator

Available
National Theatre of Iceland Location

The National Theatre of Iceland is located on Hverfisgata in the Austurbær neighborhood of downtown Reykjavík. Situated in the heart of the capital, this flagship performing arts venue is easily accessible and surrounded by popular local cultural spots. This central location makes it an ideal stop for visitors planning to experience the city's vibrant theatrical scene.

© OpenStreetMap contributors

Hverfisgata 19

101 Reykjavíkurborg

Austurbær, Höfuðborgarsvæðið, IS

Live Drama and Performances at the National Theatre of Iceland

The National Theatre of Iceland, located in Reykjavíkurborg, serves as the country's flagship performing arts institution. Visitors can experience a diverse repertoire that includes classical drama, modern local plays, musicals, and classical opera. Productions are staged across several distinct spaces, such as the grand Main Stage and the intimate Basement on Hverfisgata. Collaborations with local and international artists support award-winning theatrical productions year-round, offering an immersive look into Iceland's premier live dramatic traditions.

Two buildings on a grassy hill: a tall brutalist concrete structure with narrow vertical windows on the left, and a white classical building with a dark roof on the right, under a blue sky.

The History of the National Theatre of Iceland

The National Theatre of Iceland in downtown Reykjavík opened on 20 April 1950. Designed by Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson, the building was established as the country's **flagship performing arts institution**. Its first artistic director, Guðlaugur Rósinkranz, began his tenure in 1949, shaping the venue's role as a vital cultural hub.

  • Formal opening in 1950

    1950Opening

    The National Theatre of Iceland, known locally as Þjóðleikhúsið, was formally opened on 20 April 1950. It serves as the primary national theatre for the country, located in downtown Reykjavík.

  • Designed by Guðjón Samúelsson

    1950Architecture

    The building was designed by the notable Icelandic architect Guðjón Samúelsson. His architectural vision defines the structure that has housed the national theatre since its inception in 1950.

  • Historical leadership sequence

    1949-2024Notable person

    Guðlaugur Rósinkranz served as the first artistic director starting in 1949, leading the institution until 1972. The role has since been held by several directors, with Magnús Geir Þórðarsson currently serving in the position since 2020.

National Theatre of Iceland: Handy FAQs & Curious Details

Can you buy books at a theatre, or pre-order your intermission drinks 12 hours before the show? The National Theatre of Iceland in Reykjavík answers these queries and more. Discover everything from wheelchair access details to where you can pick up hearing loop devices at the refreshments bar.

How do I contact the National Theatre of Iceland?

You can contact the National Theatre of Iceland via email or phone, although the specific general contact details are currently not provided.

What is the phone number for the National Theatre of Iceland?

The National Theatre of Iceland can be reached by phone, but the specific contact number is currently not provided.

What is the email address for the National Theatre of Iceland?

The National Theatre of Iceland accepts inquiries via email, but the specific email address is not currently provided.

Are there accessible toilets at the National Theatre of Iceland?

Accessible toilets are available with limited availability, located on the 2nd floor and in the theatre basement, though not all stages feature wheelchair-accessible toilets.

Planning Your Visit to the National Theatre of Iceland

To ensure a smooth experience at the National Theatre of Iceland in Reykjavik, visitors are encouraged to arrange tickets and any special accommodations in advance. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available across multiple stages, though securing designated spots on the Main Stage requires prior booking, and accessing other performance spaces may involve contacting the duty manager. For convenience, guests can pre-order refreshments at least twelve hours before a performance to enjoy at the onsite dining areas. Additionally, assistive listening devices are available for main hall productions, and several parking garages are located nearby.

Visitor Experience at the National Theatre of Iceland

The National Theatre of Iceland in Reykjavík offers a welcoming environment for families, couples, solo theatregoers, and groups seeking to experience performing arts, drama, and music. The venue features robust accessibility arrangements, including wheelchair-accessible seating, elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spots. To assist diverse visitors, hearing loops are available in the main hall, while select productions offer subtitles or sign language interpretation. Guests can also enhance their visit by pre-ordering refreshments at the venue's dining spaces or browsing the dedicated onsite theatre bookshop.

National Theatre of Iceland Visual Preview

Explore the striking architectural presence of the National Theatre of Iceland in downtown Reykjavík. Images highlight the building's distinctive exterior, featuring bold vertical concrete fins, textured grey facades, and clean art deco lines. These previews capture the dramatic structure of the country's flagship performing arts venue, preparing visitors for the creative experiences hosted within.

Two buildings on a grassy hill: a tall brutalist concrete structure with narrow vertical windows on the left, and a white classical building with a dark roof on the right, under a blue sky.
Gray concrete building with vertical architectural fins along the facade, steps leading to the entrance, and cars parked in front
Exterior view of the National Theatre of Iceland, a grey Art Deco-style building with vertical concrete fins along the roofline, white flagpoles, and a black iron fence
Reykjavík

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