The Festiviteten Haugesund Theatre and Concert Hall was opened in 1914 and upon opening, it was considered as the most stunning concert halls outside of the Norwegian cities of Oslo and Bergen. It remained as Kristiansund’s famous Opera House, with its carved stone structure, incorporating Romantic Novelist and Art Nouveau styles, considered to be the city’s pride.

Of course, the Festiviteten has played host to multiple activities over the years, including concerts, opera, theatre, wrestling matches, cinema, courtrooms and worship services amongst others. A significant milestone in this building’s history was in 1928, when the Sensational era began with opera performances. In recent years, the Opera Festival has been organised here annually, every February and is a two week festival with full-scale opera and musical. It is a treat to watch as you will be amazed by feats of local artistes and if you are in town in February, do make sure to get your tickets fast!