Sunday, 21 September 2008

Oslo Opera House and the Norwegian Opera


Designed by Norwegian architect firm Snøhetta, the spectacular new Opera House in Bjørvika, Oslo, home of the Norwegian Opera opened on April 12th 2008 with a gala.

The opera house is located a mere 5 minutes walk from the Oslo Central Station (exit: South) via a pedestrian bridge, in a previously underdeveloped area of Oslo.

The building is quite simply spectacular and ranges among the finest examples of modern architecture I have yet seen. There is a very nordic atmosphere to the design, and the way the elements of water, ice, wood and the northern lights are incorporated is truly exceptional.
Among the most spectacular features is the roof, which descends directly into the sea, available for the public to walk on. The impression of floating and unending widths are stunning.

The 1364 seats in the auditorium include standing room spaces at the 3rd balcony level. The view seems fine from most of the seats. The stage is located 16 meter below sea level.

Practical information:

Tickets and season schedule available from the company website.

All the below photographs are from September 20th 2008 during the performance of Don Carlo.


















































































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