The Main Stage is an unforgettable experience in itself. The auditorium seats 923, while the 600-square-metre stage and its revolving platform create a truly memorable theatre experience. The stage technology and the lighting and sound systems are of the highest international standard.
Theatre performances in the current theatre building on the shore of Eläintarhanlahti Bay began in autumn 1967. Helsinki City Theatre has two predecessors, whose colourful histories form a significant part of Finnish theatre history. Its oldest roots date back to the beginning of the last century. Helsingin Työväenteatteri was officially founded in 1902 and Helsingin Kansanteatteri in 1933. The two merged in 1948 to form Helsingin Kansanteatteri-Työväenteatteri. At that time, having premises of their own was still a distant dream. Their principal performance venues were Koiton näyttämö, Vallilan näyttämö and Vanha Ylioppilastalo. Helsinki City Theatre succeeded Kansanteatteri-Työväenteatteri in 1965, when the Helsinki Theatre Foundation was established.
At the same time, the decision was made to commission a new theatre building. The design competition was won by the young architect Timo Penttilä, who has since gained international acclaim. The City of Helsinki commissioned the building, which was handed over to the Theatre Foundation in September 1967.
***
The Main Stage has a free cloakroom.
The theatre doors open 1 hour before the performance begins.
Print the Main Stage seating plan here.
Explore the Main Stage virtual panorama.
