Göteborgs Operan Tour
February 2023, written by Ceri Taylor
Moving to a new place in itself is daunting, but especially so when you don’t speak the language. One green flag for me about moving to Sweden was the positive feedback about how well the general public speak English. However it’s worth noting that English is not an official language, therefore there is no obligation to have things readily available in English, such as signs in the supermarket (Willy’s is the best, fyi), announcements on the tram, or backstage tours at the Göteborg Opera House. If you’re a self-confessed theatre junkie like me, this initial discovery was very disappointing - until ESN Göteborg, the best group in the world, secured tours for an Göteborg Opera House Tour in English! Of course I immediately secured my place and I am now writing this in my favorite cafe as one happy soprano.
Built between the years of 1991 - 1994 the beautiful Opera House overlooks the calm blue water at Lilla Bommen, made even more relaxing by the dulcet tones of classically trained singers covering Elivis Preseley and Unchained Melody. Your tour guide (I had the pleasure of meeting Charlotta) will take you on a winding journey from the light and airy front of house to the busy and bustling wardrobe department with plenty of interesting stories along the way. I won’t give away too many spoilers as I highly recommend you take a tour yourself but if you like noseying at costumes ready to be worn on the stage the same day, learning how to make wigs or even sitting in on a sneak peek of rehearsals for an upcoming show, then don’t hesitate to sign up!
The astounding production of Cabaret is currently showing at the Göteborg Opera House, but if musical theatre isn’t your thing you can also watch contemporary dance or see a traditional opera. If your Swedish is better than mine, head on over to the Göteborg Opera House website to find out more about what else is available to you - including the opportunity to have a go yourself!
The Göteborg Opera House also offers an amazing discount programme for students! Have a look at the student list if you want to get tickets for as little as 150 SEK!
Fancy treading the boards? See you at the curtain call!
