Västmanlands Teater
Västmanlands län
Västmanlands Teater, located in central Västerås, is the regional theater of Västmanland County, dedicated to producing and supporting theatrical performances for children, youth, and adults. Established in a historic theater building designed by Erik Hahr in 1915, it houses three stages: the Main Stage with 374 seats, the Small Stage with 104 seats, and the Bistro Stage accommodating 60 dining guests. The theater not only produces its own shows but also tours extensively throughout the county, reaching local theaters, associations, and schools. It supports the vibrant local amateur theater community, which includes over 1,000 members in approximately 15 groups, by offering advice, equipment loans, marketing, education, and copyright guidance. Annually, Västmanlands Teater stages around 200 performances that attract nearly 40,000 visitors, creating a unique cultural experience for both residents and visitors. The theater also hosts guest performances from other parts of Sweden and internationally, often drawing inspiration from regional events. It is governed as a municipal federation with members including Region Västmanland and Västerås city, and its ensemble comprises about 35 permanent staff members. Since 2016, Niklas Hjulström has served as theater director, with Natalie Ringler announced as his successor from 2027.
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Tip: Visitors are encouraged to check the theater's official website for the latest performance schedules and to book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows. The theater offers a variety of performances suitable for all ages, including touring productions in schools and local venues across Västmanland. Visiting during the theater's active season, particularly in spring and autumn, provides the best opportunity to experience diverse programming. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The Bistro Stage offers a unique dining and theater experience, ideal for combining dinner with a performance.
Interesting facts
- •Västmanlands Teater stages over 200 performances annually, attracting nearly 40,000 visitors.
- •The theater building dates back to 1915 and was designed by Västerås' city architect Erik Hahr.
- •Västmanland County has one of the highest numbers of active amateur theater groups in Sweden, with over 1,000 members.
- •In 1967, the Västerås Ensemble became the first permanent Riksteater ensemble outside Stockholm.
- •The theater operates three stages: Stora scenen (Main Stage), Lilla scenen (Small Stage), and Bistroscenen (Bistro Stage).
History
The theater building was constructed in 1915, designed by Västerås' city architect Erik Hahr, becoming a cultural hub for the region's performing arts.
In 1967, the Västerås Ensemble was established as the first permanent Riksteater ensemble outside Stockholm, premiering with a revue by Hasse Alfredson and Tage Danielsson.
In 1977, the ensemble transitioned into a regional theater company, Västmanlands länsteater, focusing on productions within the county.
Since 1998, the theater has operated under the name Västmanlands Teater as a municipal federation owned by Västerås city and the regional government, continuing its mission to serve the cultural needs of Västmanland.
Place Guide
Main Stage (Stora scenen)1915
The largest auditorium with seating for 374 guests, hosting major theatrical productions and performances.
Small Stage (Lilla scenen)1915
An intimate stage with 104 seats, used for smaller productions and experimental performances.
Bistro Stage (Bistroscenen)1915
A unique dining theater setting that accommodates 60 guests, combining meals with performances.
Contact
Phone: 021-470 41 00