This striking contemporary opera house is not only one of the most modern, but also the most expensive in the world.
Situated on the island of Holmen, the 1,703 seat Copenhagen Opera House was completed in 2005. Designed by Henning Larsen, a Danish architect, it hosts events from across the whole performing arts spectrum, with a programme of theatre, ballet, opera and music concerts.
One of the most expensive performance venues in the world, the building was completed at a cost of over half a billion NZ dollars. It was actually a gift to the city from a local shipping magnate. Although subtle in appearance there are some incredible design details. For example, look up at the ceiling, which is covered in a staggering 105,000 sheets of gold leaf! In today’s financial climate, the figures may seem excessive, but at the time, the project was seen as a symbol of the financial power and optimism present in Northern Europe.
The exterior displays several different faces and no two sides of the building as seen from outside, look alike.
Once inside, the impressive design details continue, with beautiful solid oak flooring throughout. The venue boasts 6 different stages, which can be viewed as part of an informative tour that also takes in the orchestra pits, backstage areas and the auditorium including the Queen of Denmark’s private balcony.
The Copenhagen Opera House strikes the perfect balance between form and function with the acoustics here being internationally recognised as some of the finest anywhere in the world. The quality of the performances, which range from Verdi through to Shakespeare are truly inspiring. For more challenging work, there is a second performance space on the site. The Takkelloftet or Black Box Theatre is an intimate, 200-seat space dedicated to theatre, music and dance works of a more experimental kind.
Located just outside the city centre, the Copenhagen Opera House is situated on Holmen Island, which is connected to the mainland by bridges making it easily accessible on foot, by bicycle or local buses. There is limited paid parking available if you are coming by car. For full details of performance times and a schedule of events, check the venue’s website.
