Most have heard of the Sydney Opera House as an impressive Australian landmark known worldwide, but not many are aware of the artistic and architectural beauty of the Oslo Opera House.
If you would like to find out what makes the Oslo Opera House so special or would like to attend one of its many prestigious events, then read on. We give you the lowdown on what to expect from an Oslo Opera House experience. And remember that renting a motorhome in Oslo will allow you to see all the monuments of the city and then the landscapes of Norway!
The Ins and Outs of the Architectural Design of the Opera House in Oslo
The Opera House opened its doors in 2008 in Norway’s capital city (as the name suggests). The idea behind the Norwegian Opera House building was to extend the feeling of freedom of movement one finds in Norwegian nature.
Hence, the sloping platforms on each side that lead all the way to the Oslo Opera House rooftop, where you are legally allowed (and encouraged!) to walk around and take in all the views around you. The left offers views of the vibrant city center, the right overlooks the Fjord Archipelago lined with brightly painted wooden summer houses, and at the back, you have the majestic mountains and hills as a dramatic backdrop.
But it’s not just the external features that are incredibly impressive. It’s also the internal features, such as the main hall. The main hall’s interior has wooden elements, keeping to the Norwegian nature theme. The focal point of this room, however, is the central light.
The circular LED light, shining from behind hand-cast glass bars, is meant to give the appearance of a full moon shining down on you from the heavens. The interior of the Oslo Opera House also plays around with texture, and the perforated cladding and lighting also make for an other-worldly walk through its halls.
Events at the Oslo Opera House
The Oslo Opera House is home to the Norwegian National Ballet and the Opera, boasting a performer workforce of over 600. Due to its impressive contemporary architecture, it’s managed to build a bit of a reputation among the performing arts community globally, so you will often find international acts gracing the stage here.
Because of the layout inside the concert hall, the audience also feels like they can get much closer to the performers and have a much more intimate experience. Many outdoor events are also held, with the sloping sides acting as seating for the audience. Events held at the Opera House range from classical music concerts and opera to ballet and other dance performances.
Just keep a close eye on the event calendar to book your tickets well in advance. Oslo Opera House tickets can be bought on the website, and prices vary based on the show or performance. Many will be relieved to learn that going to a show at the Opera House in Oslo is not a tux and ballgown type of situation, and, in general, the Oslo Opera House dress code is considered smart casual.
This means you shouldn’t be surprised if you see someone wearing a nice shirt with jeans to a show. Unlike many opera houses, the Oslo Opera House allows the younger generations to also enjoy performances. Children and the youth are encouraged as much as possible to learn about and partake in cultural events.
General Opera House Etiquette
If this is going to be your first time watching a concert or visiting an opera house, the following tips and advice on general etiquette will be very helpful:
Clapping is not just encouraged but expected.
Clapping really gives the performers the validation they need, confirming that they’ve given a good performance and are appreciated. Most performers will tell you that the sound of applause tends to almost immediately lift the energy levels amongst the performers on stage.
Laughing is also acceptable.
Concerts, whether classical music or tragic operas, also have funny moments (whether intentional or unintentional). While many can be very weary of laughing in fear that the laughter will be taken in the wrong way, we can assure you that the performers themselves and the stagehands will be laughing just as heartily!
Take up the offer of helpful tools if you’re a newbie.
If it’s your first time to the opera or the ballet, and you feel like you won’t be able to make heads or tails out of what’s happening on stage, then get yourself a program. Programs generally have the entire story of what is unfolding, act by act.
You will also sometimes have Q&As after performances so the performers and experts can answer any questions you may have. Some performances even offer English subtitles on the screen if the performance is in another language (which is often the case with opera).
Talking and eating loudly are absolute no-nos.
Not only is it actually disruptive to the performance itself, but it also shows a lack of respect towards the performers and the rest of the audience trying to watch the show. Annoying noises also include things like unwrapping a candy bar (do this in between acts or songs) and phones ringing.
Smart casual is still not casual.
While Norwegians aren’t too concerned with the old-school formalities of the opera, it still doesn’t mean that you can rock up in shorts and flip-flops (even on those warm summer days). The reason the dress code is smart casual is to show respect and appreciation for the performers, the audience, and the overall experience.
Come and Experience the Oslo Opera House for Yourself
Now that you know all the ins and outs of the Oslo Opera House, it is your turn to become one of the 1.7 million visitors visiting the Oslo Opera House each year. You can also book a spot on one of the guided tours at the Opera House, during which a knowledgeable guide will show you around and give you the insider scoop on what’s happening there.
Once you’ve experienced the magic of this architectural gem and cultural hub, we recommend you rent a motorhome in Norway to explore the rest of the country and all its exciting attractions and activities.
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