Mission

The theatre’s mission is to make outstanding, entertaining, and challenging theatre for a diverse audience, share important and compelling stories, arouse the general public’s interest in the theatre and promote the development of the art of the stage.

The NTI works with prominent theatre artists from Iceland and abroad and nurtures new talent. The theatre tours its productions around Iceland and abroad. A newly established Theatre School aims at preparing young theatre enthusiasts for a career in the theatre.

The NTI aims to be inclusive, diverse, and sustainable.

Selected performances have captioning in English.

Stages

The theatre contains four separate venues for performances in two buildings:

Main Building

• The Main Stage (500 seats)
• The Theatre Cellar Club (100-120 seats)

Black Box Building

• The Black Box (130 seats)
• The Small Stage (80 seats)

The theatre offers a variety of refreshments for guests. A little theatre book shop is run in the foyer.

Ensemble and production

The NTI is an ensemble theatre with around 25 actors employed on a permanent basis, and also works with actors with temporary assignments. The theatre runs its own efficient production departments that manufacture sets, costumes, and wigs, as well as productive sound and lighting departments. The theatre works closely with schools on all education levels.

Season 2026-2027

The season 2026-2027 offers a great variety of theatrical productions, all created by outstanding Icelandic and international theatre artists.

HÖGG (Punch) | Main Stage

Based on a true story and adapted from Jacob Dunne’s memoir, Högg is James Graham’s powerful and internationally acclaimed drama about violence, guilt, forgiveness and the possibility of change. When a single impulsive act destroys several lives, an extraordinary journey towards reconciliation begins. A major contemporary work that has moved audiences from London’s West End to Broadway, this compelling production explores both personal responsibility and the human capacity for redemption. Director: Magnus Geir Thordarson.

NÝTT ELDHÚS EFTIR MÁLI (A New Kitchen Made to Measure) | Kassinn

In this witty and inventive new play by Fridgeir Einarsson, a seemingly ordinary kitchen renovation becomes the starting point for a journey into loneliness, desire and everyday dreams. Blending humour, fantasy and keen social observation, the play transforms an observation of domestic life into something unexpected and profound. A fresh Icelandic work that examines contemporary relationships and the search for meaning with warmth, intelligence and theatrical imagination. Director: Bjorn Thors.

HETJUR HAFSINS (Heroes of the Sea) | Main Stage

Set in a small fishing community in Iceland’s Westfjords, Heroes of the Sea is a sweeping new drama by renowned film and theatre director Ragnar Bragason. Through stories of loss, resilience, love and survival, it sheds light on lives shaped by the sea and asks who the true heroes are: those who venture out into the storms, or those who wait on shore. A powerful portrait of Icelandic history, memory and identity. Director: Ragnar Bragason.

TAKTU LAGIÐ, LÓA (The Rise and Fall of Little Voice) | Main Stage

Jim Cartwright’s celebrated modern classic tells the story of a shy young woman whose extraordinary singing talent offers an escape from a difficult home life. Filled with humour, heartache and unforgettable music, the play explores vulnerability, exploitation and the struggle to find one’s own voice. Winner of major British theatre awards and beloved by audiences worldwide, it remains one of contemporary theatre’s most moving dramas. Director: Thora Karitas Arnadottir.

RÝMI FYRIR ÁST (Room for Love) | Main Stage

Award-winning playwright Tyrfingur Tyrfingsson returns with an ambitious new work exploring intimacy, longing and human connection. Six strangers search for love in unexpected ways, their stories intertwining through humour, mystery and surprising theatrical imagery. Created by one of Iceland’s most distinctive contemporary voices, this production transforms the Main Stage itself into a unique performance environment, inviting audiences to experience both theatre and love from a different perspective. Director: Stefan Jonsson.

GAGNKYNHNEIGÐ (Heterosexuality) | Kassinn

What happens when something long considered “normal” is suddenly viewed from a different angle? Heterosexuality is a sharp, funny and thought-provoking contemporary play that turns familiar assumptions upside down and invites audiences to examine gender, identity and social conventions anew. Combining humour with incisive observation, the production offers a fresh perspective on modern relationships while continuing the National Theatre’s commitment to presenting bold new voices and urgent contemporary themes. Created by: Kviss búmm bang.

ORMSTUNGA (Gunnlaugur ormstunga “serpent-tongue”, the musical) | Main Stage

Drawing on the rich traditions of Icelandic storytelling while speaking directly to the present, Gunnlaugur ormstunga “serpent-tongue”, the musical, a smash hit from last season, explores the power of language, manipulation and ambition. This visually striking production brings mythic themes into dialogue with contemporary concerns, examining how stories shape individuals and societies alike. A compelling new Icelandic work written by two authors belonging to Iceland’s youngest generation of theatre artists, Hafsteinn Nielsson and Oliver Thorsteinsson, that demonstrates the enduring relevance of the nation’s literary heritage and its potential for reinvention on stage. Director: Gisli Orn Gardarsson.

ORESTEIA | Kassinn

Award-winning director and playwright Benedict Andrews reimagines one of the founding texts of Western drama in a bold and electrifying contemporary adaptation. Inspired by Aeschylus’ ancient trilogy, Oresteia transforms a timeless story of war, revenge and justice into a visceral theatrical experience for today’s audiences. Andrews’ distinctive writing strips the myth to its emotional core, while his celebrated direction combines raw physicality, striking visual imagery and extraordinary performances. A major critical and audience success, Oresteia was awarded the 2026 Gríman Award for Production of the Year and received awards for Play of the Year, Set Design of the Year and Leading Actress of the Year. The production earned ten Gríman nominations in total, confirming its status as a landmark achievement in Icelandic theatre. Widely acclaimed as one of the most remarkable Icelandic productions of recent years, Oresteia demonstrates how a classical masterpiece can speak with urgent force to contemporary audiences through the visionary artistry of Benedict Andrews. Director: Benedict Andrews.

SALKA VALKA | Settlement Center in Borgarnes

Based on the celebrated novel by Nobel Prize-winning author Halldór Laxness, Salka Valka by Unnur Osp Stefansdottir follows an unforgettable young woman determined to forge her own path in a harsh and changing world. At once an intimate coming-of-age story and a vivid portrait of a coastal community, the work captures themes of independence, social justice and resilience. A cornerstone of Icelandic literature brought to life through the power of contemporary theatre. Director: Bjorn Thors.

Á RAUÐU LJÓSI (At the Red Light) | Main Stage/Theatre Cellar

A runaway theatrical hit, At the Red Light has charmed audiences with its irresistible mix of warmth, wit and honesty. After 99 sold-out performances, this beloved one-woman show moved from the National Theatre Cellar to the Main Stage, becoming one of Iceland’s most celebrated recent success stories. Written and performed by Kristín Þóra Haraldsdóttir, the show explores stress, burnout and the pressures of modern life with infectious humour and heartfelt humanity. By turns laugh-out-loud funny and deeply touching, it reminds us that behind every busy, capable person is a human being simply trying to keep up.

SEASON 202-2027 CHILDREN’S PRODUCTIONS

PIPPI LONGSTOCKING | Main Stage

A joyful celebration of courage, imagination and independence, Lindgren’s Pippi Longstocking has been one of the National Theatre’s greatest recent successes. Loved by audiences of all ages, the production was named Children’s Performance of the Year at both the 2026 Gríman Awards and the children’s choice awards, Sögur. It also received Gríman Awards for Direction, Costume Design and Featured Actor, becoming the most awarded children’s production in the history of the Gríman Awards. As the production approaches its 100th performance, Pippi continues to delight new generations with her boundless energy, humour and unforgettable adventures. Director: Agnes Wild.

LAXNESS, WHO IS THAT? | Touring

Created especially for students in the upper grades of compulsory school, Laxness, Who Is That? is part of the National Theatre’s education programme and a special school performance designed to introduce young audiences to the life, ideas and legacy of Halldór Laxness, Iceland’s Nobel Prize-winning author. Through humour, storytelling and theatrical invention, the production explores why Laxness still matters today, encouraging students to engage with literature, language and Icelandic culture in a lively and accessible way. A unique blend of education and theatre that brings one of Iceland’s greatest writers to a new generation. Director: Vala Fannell.

GRANDPA | The Small Stage

A warm and touching story about family, memory and the special bond between generations. Through humour, tenderness and imaginative stagecraft, Grandpa explores how stories are passed down and how relationships shape who we become. A heartfelt production for children and adults alike, celebrating the wisdom, love and unforgettable adventures shared between grandparents and grandchildren. Director: Agnes Wild.

THE NEST | The Small Stage

A poetic and visually rich theatrical experience for younger audiences, created by Midnaetti, The Nest explores themes of home, belonging and growing up. Through music, movement and imaginative storytelling, children are invited into a world where curiosity and courage lead the way. A gentle yet thought-provoking production that speaks to universal experiences while encouraging wonder and discovery. Director: Agnes Wild.

LARA AND HER LION: A CHRISTMAS STORY | Main Stage

A festive adventure filled with warmth, humour and seasonal magic. As Christmas approaches, Lara and Ljónsi embark on an unforgettable journey that celebrates friendship, generosity and the joy of being together. Created for family audiences, this charming production combines enchanting storytelling with the wonder and excitement that make theatre a special part of the holiday season. Director: Gudjon Karlsson.

Recent productions

• Íbúð 10B (Apartment 10B) by Ólafur Jóhann Ólafsson, directed by Baltasar Kormákur. A provocative and hilarious new Icelandic play, wonderfully well-written and tense, straight from contemporary Iceland.
• Ormstunga (Gunnlaugur ormstunga “serpent-tongue”, the musical), By Hafsteinn Níelsson and Oliver Thorsteinsson, directed by Gisli Orn Gardarsson. Music: Hafsteinn Níelsson. Co-writer of music and conducting: Jóhannes Damian R. Patreksson.
• Gæðablóð (Nice Guys) by Davíð Þór Katrínarson, Jónmundur Grétarsson, Unnsteinn Manuel Stefánsson, Þóra Karítas Árnadóttir. Directed by Þóra Karítas Árnadóttir. Music: Kristofer Rodriguez Svönuson
• Lína Langsokkur (Pippi Langstrump) by Astrid Lindgren.
• Jólagjöf Skruggu (Skrugga’s Christmas Present) by Matthias Tryggvi Haraldsson and Melkorka Tekla Olafsdottir.
• Hreiðrið (The Nest) by Midnaetti.
• Rót (Rooted) by Handbendi.
• Blómin á þakinu (The Flowers on the Roof) based on the book by Brian Pilkington and Ingibjorg Sigurdardottir. Directed and adapted by Agnes Wild. Play for children, 2-8 years old.
• Nýtt eldhús eftir máli (New tailored kitchen) by Fridgeir Einarsson.
• Þetta er gjöf (This is a gift) by Kolbrun Bjort Sigfusdottir.
• Harry og Heimir (H&H Murder Mystery) by Karl Ágúst Úlfsson, Sigurður Sigurjónsson, Örn Árnason
• Salka – ástin og dauðinn (Salka Valka – Love and Death) by Unnur Osp Stefansdottir, based on the novel by Halldor Laxness.
• Eltum veðrið (Follow the Sun) a new Icelandic comedy, written and directed by the group of actors.
• Saknaðarilmur (Scent of Loss) a new Icelandic play, based on the books by Elisabet Jokulsdottir, adapted by Unnur Osp Stefansdottir. Directed by Bjorn Thors.
• Sund (The Swimming Pool) in cooperation with Blautir bukar. Directed and written by Birnir Jon Sigurdsson.
• Á rauðu ljósi (Red Light) by Kristin Thora Haraldsdootir.

Theatre Cellar Club:

• Leikhuskjallarinn (Theatre Cellar Club) fringe venue – improv, stand up, cabaret, comic opera in Icelandic, diverse variety shows, Reykjavik Fringe Festival and so much more.

STORMUR (Storm) a new Icelandic musical by Unnur Osp Stefansdottir and Una Torfadottir. HEIM (Home) a new Icelandic play by Hrafnhildur Hagalin.TAKTU FLUGIÐ BEIBÍ (Fly, Baby) a new Icelandic play by Kolbrun Dogg Kristjánsdottir. YERMA by Simon Stone. ORÐ GEGN ORÐI (Prima Facie) by Suzie Miller. JÓLABOÐIÐ (Christmas Dinner) an Icelandic play by Gisli Orn Gardarsson and Melkorka Tekla Olafsdóttir, based on the play by Tyra Tonnessen. FROST (Frozen) by Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Robert Lopez, Jennifer Lee, a family production. ORRI ÓSTÖÐVANDI (Unstoppable Orri) based on the book by Bjarni Fritzson, for school groups. ÉG GET (I Can do it) by Peter Engkvist, for pre-school groups. LÁRA OG LJÓNSI – JÓLASAGA (Lara and Ljonsi – Christmas story) by Birgitta Haukdal, for Children.