The Royal Dramatic Theater


Stockholm is a city of contrasts. Along with the ancient monuments of architecture, giant skyscrapers are built here, and centuries-old traditions do not prevent the emergence of new trends in music and fashion. Sunny and hospitable, the capital of Sweden welcomes millions of tourists annually. Among the most visited attractions , the Royal Dramatic Theater in Stockholm deserves special attention.

Historical facts

The Royal Dramatic Theater was founded in 1788 by King Gustav III and his protege by Earl Armfelt. In the first years the performances were held only in the state language, however, since there were not enough good works in Swedish, in the course of time Dramaten's repertoire included plays in English, French and other languages. In addition to comedies and operettas, the theater also often held solemn performances at weddings in the royal family, which for many years it was fully funded.

By the beginning of the 1900s, the building of the Royal Dramatic Theater in Stockholm had decayed, which caused a severe fire that destroyed the entire structure. The last play on the old stage took place on June 14, 1907, and in 1908 the project of one of the most respected architects of the country Juhan Fredrik Liljekvist was implemented and, thus, a new Dramatene appeared.

Architectural features

The official opening ceremony of the new Royal Dramatic Theater in Stockholm was held on February 18, 1908. The architect, during the creation of his masterpiece, was inspired by modern trends in construction and theater buildings in Europe, as well as Scandinavian natural forms, trying to combine all directions in one project. As a result, the new building was made in the style of the Viennese Art Nouveau with elements of classicism.

In addition, the central facade, decorated with many small details, is of great interest to tourists. Finishing of the exterior was done by the famous sculptors Karl Milles, Christian Erikson, Theodore Lundberg and others. Among their works belong:

Dramatena Hall

The ingenious architect Fredrik Lilquist developed the plan for a new theater in minute detail, so the appearance and interior of the building are in full harmony.

The capacity of the main hall of the Royal Dramatic Theater in Stockholm is up to 770 people. It was made in the same color scheme as under King Gustav III - in the design shades of blue, white and gold were used. In addition, the delight of all visitors caused a rich decor, including luxurious paintings by the artist Julius Kronberg - "Apollo surrounded by 9 muses", "Eros in the company of 3 goddesses of fate", etc. These elegant works on mythological themes were very well received by the then critics.

Great importance in the interior of the hall of the main national theater of Sweden is also allocated to the royal bed. Despite the fact that a separate entrance was made to it, every spectator could examine it from the audience.

How to get there?

On the territory of Dramatena, guided tours are regularly conducted accompanied by a qualified guide who will acquaint you with the history of this legendary place, hold behind the scenes and show the wrong side of the theatrical art. The cost of such a tour for people under 26 years is 3.5 cu, for all others - 7 cu

You can reach the Royal Dramatic Theater in Stockholm in several ways: