National Theatre expansion remains on schedule, minister says

The planned expansion of the National Theatre remains on schedule, Culture, Innovation and Higher Education Minister Logi Einarsson told mbl.is.

An initial study is well under way, Einarsson said, with the next steps to follow in the same way as in a conventional construction project.

The project was announced a year ago during Culture Night. It involves building a new stage between Lindargata and Sölvhólsgata, on a site currently used for parking. The new auditorium is expected to seat 250 to 300 people.

The extension is estimated to cost two billion Icelandic krónur and cover 2,000 to 3,000 square metres. It will probably be connected to Kassinn rather than to the main building.

The building was originally expected to be ready for the National Theatre’s 80th anniversary in 2030. It is intended to address the theatre’s lack of space by providing a new auditorium, rehearsal facilities, and space for scenery and the costume collection.

“Everything is on schedule,” Einarsson said, adding that the project had been included in the financial plan and that funding had been secured. The aim remains to open the building in 2030, although it could be completed later.

The project is managed by Framkvæmdasýslan – Ríkiseignir, the state construction and property agency, under the oversight of a three-member steering group. The group includes Sverrir Bollason of the agency, Arna Einarsdóttir of the Ministry of Culture, Innovation and Higher Education, and Magnús Geir Þórðarson, director of the National Theatre.

Þórðarson said the theatre was grateful and excited about the project, which he said would strengthen its ability to fulfil its diverse roles as effectively and efficiently as possible.