National Theater

Þjóðleikhúsið, the National Theater of Iceland, has been the country’s leading stage for theatre, opera, and dance since it opened in 1950. The building, designed by architect Guðjón Samúelsson in a distinctive lava-clad style, sits prominently on Hverfisgata in central Reykjavík and is itself a notable example of 20th-century Icelandic architecture. The National Theater Company produces a full season of plays — primarily in Icelandic — alongside opera, musicals, and occasional visiting productions.

The theatre operates three stages of varying sizes and runs productions from autumn through spring. The repertoire blends classical European drama with Icelandic works and contemporary international pieces, and the company has a strong tradition of premiering Icelandic-language adaptations of world classics. The building was renovated in the early 21st century and the main auditorium seats around 600.

The National Theater is located on Hverfisgata, within easy walking distance of Laugavegur and the city centre. Performances are almost exclusively in Icelandic, but the theatre occasionally hosts English-language or surtitled productions. Tickets are available online at leikhusid.is and should be booked in advance for popular productions. The foyer and café are open on performance evenings.