Iceland is a country rooted deep in creativity, history and tradition – and its theaters are no exception! Take a look at some of the most unique and historic theaters that Iceland has to offer on your next trip.
Reykjavik City Theater
The Reykjavik City Theater dates back to the founding of the Reykjavik Theater Company in 1897. It is considered one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious cultural institutions. The theater independently hosts 9 to 13 new productions yearly, in addition to several other productions in collaboration with local theaters. The theater is home to three stages, with the largest holding up to 550 people. Take a look at its calendar to plan your next theater visit!
The National Theater of Iceland
The National Theater of Iceland formally opened in Reykjavik on April 20, 1950. Although not nearly as old as the Reykjavik City Theater, the National Theater of Iceland (NTI) is rich in history and art. The NTI stages between 20 and 30 productions annually, ranging from international plays to puppet shows. Today, the venue is home to five different stages, the largest able to hold up to 500 people. Check out the NTI’s calendar so you don’t miss its next production!
Harpa Hall 
The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center is located in the heart of Reykjavik and has been in operation since 2011. It is a unique building influenced by Iceland’s extraordinary and dramatic nature. It looks as though it is made entirely of glass, allowing the building to reflect both the land and sea, as well as the bustling city of Reykjavik. The building is home to Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera. It has four halls, with the largest one holding up to 1,800 guests. Intrigued? Check out Harpa’s calendar so you can attend its next event!
The Nordic House
The Nordic House is located in the center of Reykjavik and was opened in 1968. It describes itself as a “venue for inspiration and creative thinking.” The Nordic House hosts a variety of cultural events and exhibitions every year, such as the Reykjavik International Film and Literary Festivals, Iceland Airwaves, and the Nordic Fashion Biennale. It is operated by the Nordic Council of Ministers, whose goal is to create a connection between Nordic countries. Be sure to check out the event calendar to see everything that is going on in the upcoming months!
Græni Hatturinn (The Green Hat)
Græni Hatturinn (or the “Green Hat” in English), is not only one of the most highly regarded concert halls in Akureyri, but also in the entire country. It is not a grand concert hall, but instead a cozy venue that is mostly standing room only on crowded nights. Musicians that visit Iceland have claimed that Græni Hatturinn is one of their favorite venues to perform at. It is located beneath a cafe on the main street of Akureyri and hosts numerous national and international artists each year. Check out the venue’s calendar to see who is performing there soon!
Do you have plans to check out any of these theaters on your next trip to Iceland? Have you visited them before? Let us know in the comments below or on Twitter!
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