The National Stage (Den Nationale Scene)

The National Stage displays a wide variety of plays on three different stages. From classics to contemporary dramas and comedies - for adults and children.

The National Stage in Bergen is one of Norway’s four national institutions for performing arts. In 1850 the world-famous violinist, Ole Bull, initiated the founding of the Norwegian Theatre, which later was to become The National Stage. Bull was concerned with the Norwegian folk culture, and wanted the performing language to be Norwegian, not Danish. This represented a shift in the Norwegian theatre tradition.

From 1851-1858, Henrik Ibsen worked as a dramatist and stage instructor at the theatre, and the experiences he made with theatre in practice, was of great importance with regards to his later work as a playwright. During the years, many significant actors and actresses, dramatists and poets have worked at The National Stage in Bergen.

The theatre building was finished in 1909 and is still one of the most characteristic art-nouveau buildings in Norway. It was drawn by architect Einar Oscar Schou, and in 1993 the theatre building was protected by the National Heritage Board.

The National Stage has three stages, about 140 employees and presents approximately 25 different plays each year, in addition to guest performances.