The Finnish National Theatre holds a special place not only in the cultural but also in the political history of Finland. It was founded in 1872 (its first performance took place in a rented venue) on the initiative of journalist and playwright Kaarlo Bergbum.
During an era of rising national consciousness, when Finland was a Grand Duchy within the Russian Empire, the theatre became a powerful tool for asserting the Finnish language and culture.
Its primary mission was to create a professional theatre performing in Finnish, in contrast to the dominant Swedish-language and Russian troupes of the time. The theatre became the first permanent Finnish-language stage in the country, nurturing a generation of playwrights, actors, and directors whose names today form the golden treasury of the nation.
The Building as a Symbol: Neo-Renaissance on Rautatientori Square
The modern monumental building everyone today associates with the National Theatre was constructed much later, in 1902, according to a design by architect Onni Tarjanne. It became one of the first major public buildings erected in Helsinki during the National Romantic era.
Architectural Style: The façade is executed in the Neo-Renaissance style with elements of National Romanticism. It is a symmetrical structure of grey granite, symbolizing the importance of the theatre institution to the nation.
Façade and Symbolism:
Portico and Sculptures: The main entrance is adorned with a massive portico featuring Corinthian columns. On the pediment and in the façade niches, there are allegorical sculptures by Emil Wikström: "Comedy," "Tragedy," and "Fantasy." At the very top of the pediment is a sculpture of the goddess of victory, Nike.
The Bear (Karhu): At the theatre entrance, guests are "greeted" by the famous bronze statue of a bear (Karhu), also by sculptor Emil Wikström (1910). Rubbing its nose is a long-standing tradition believed to bring good luck, especially among theatre-goers before a premiere.
Interiors: The interior is equally impressive. The vestibule and foyer are finished with marble and stucco, and the main treasure is the auditorium with 920 seats. It is decorated in the late Art Nouveau (Jugend) style with elegant stucco, gilding, and a unique crystal chandelier. The hall is renowned for its excellent acoustics.
Why it`s a Must-Visit for Tourists: More Than Just a Play
• Architectural Monument: The building is one of the key examples of National Romantic architecture in central Helsinki and is protected by the state.
• The Country`s Main Stage: It continues to host the most important productions of Finnish and world classics, as well as contemporary drama. It is the best place to see Finnish theatrical art of the highest level.
• Traditions and Rituals: The ritual with the bear Karhu, viewing the luxurious interiors during intermission, and the opportunity to see portraits of great Finnish actors of the past in the foyer are all part of a unique theatre experience.
• Central Location: The theatre is located on the bustling Rautatientori Square, directly opposite Helsinki Central Railway Station, making it easily accessible.
Practical Information for Tourists:
Repertoire and Tickets: Performances are primarily in Finnish. However, many productions are equipped with English subtitles (a "supertitles" system). Current schedules and subtitle availability are always indicated on the official website. Tickets can be purchased online, at the theatre box office, or at city ticket outlets.
Guided Tours: The theatre periodically organizes backstage tours, where visitors can see dressing rooms, the costume department, the stage, and even descend into the basements. Such tours are usually conducted in Finnish, but information about English-language tours can be inquired about in advance.
What to See Inside, Even Without a Show Ticket: During the daytime, you can freely enter the spacious foyer, view the vestibule, photographs in the gallery, and, of course, take a photo with the bronze bear at the entrance.
Restaurant and Café: The theatre building houses the historic restaurant "Teatterin Grilli", known for its atmosphere and traditional Finnish cuisine—an ideal place for dinner before or after a performance.
The Finnish National Theatre is not merely a cultural institution but a living monument to national identity. Its building is an architectural landmark in the city centre, and its stage continues to shape the country`s cultural landscape. Even if you do not speak Finnish, it is worth visiting to experience the atmosphere of this historic place, rub the nose of the bear Karhu for luck, and appreciate the scale of one of the principal projects of Finnish national art.
