The Kungliga Operan, Sweden

The Kungliga Operan, known in English as the Royal Swedish Opera, makes its home in the center of the city of Stockholm, Sweden. First founded in 1773 by King Gustav III, the Kungliga Operan gave its first performance in January of that same year. The Operan house was not officially opened until 1782, and this building for the Kungliga Operan was replaced in the 19th century with the building used by the Operan today. The old Operan building was also the scene of tragedy; King Gustav III was assassinated here during a masquerade ball.

In 1892, a new building for the Operan Stockholm was commissioned. Axel Johan Anderberg was responsible for the construction design, and the building itself is one of Sweden’s best examples of modern architecture. The new house is officially known as the Royal Theater (Kungl Teatern), and is often referred to simply as the Operan. The new Operan Stockholm is a neo-classical building. The foyer is decorated in gold and features a marble staircase. The Operan Stockholm has a three-tier auditorium and seat about 1,200 patrons, with an orchestra pit big enough for 100 musicians. In addition to Stockholm Opera shows, the Operan is a place to see ballet, musicals and operettas.

Shows of all kinds are given here at the Stockholm Opera house quite frequently, and the Stockholm Opera house usually runs a full schedule Monday through Saturday nights. Note that the theatre is closed each year from mid-June to August, and the all and winter tend to be the most popular times to visit the theatre.

To obtain Royal Swedish Opera tickets for any of the various shows at the Operan, patrons can purchase tickets online (for most shows) or purchase tickets in person at the Operan Royal Swedish Opera tickets booth. The Royal Swedish Opera tickets booth is open Monday through Friday from noon until 6 pm, and until 7:30pm on performance nights. The ticket booth is also open shorted hours on Saturdays, from noon to 3 pm.

The Operan in Stockholm is truly a world class Opera house and a great part of Stockholm nightlife. It is located close enough to the Liseberg theme park, Avenyn and Vasa Museum that it can be the perfect end to a day trip in Stockholm. Purchase tickets in advance for the best price, and in person in advance to avoid paying an online service charge. If you are staying at a Stockholm hotel during your vacation, you can also check with your concierge upon arriving to get help planning a trip to the Operan for a show.