The building was originally designed as a gasometer to store coal gas for street lighting in Copenhagen.
The theater's architecture is a rare surviving example of a 'gasholder' building converted for cultural use.
The interior spans 45 meters in diameter and 30 meters in height, offering an exceptionally large performance volume.
The building's octagonal exterior is a protected historical landmark.
It was inaugurated as a theater in 1979 following a lengthy renovation process.
The stage design often incorporates the building's circular structure, requiring actors to perform in the round.
The original industrial gasworks machinery was completely removed to facilitate the stage installation.
Østre Gasværk Teater is housed in a former gas production plant built in 1881. The structure is an octagonal brick building characterized by its massive, cavernous interior and steel-truss dome. Originally designed by architect Martin Nyrop, who also designed Copenhagen's City Hall, the space was converted into a theater in the 1970s. The venue preserves the raw, industrial aesthetic of the original industrial site. It serves as one of Denmark's largest stages, often utilizing the unique central circular floor layout. The theater specializes in large-scale musicals, classic dramas, and experimental productions that require significant vertical and horizontal clearance. The acoustics are shaped by the building's circular geometry and high vaulted ceiling. It remains a focal point of the Østerbro district's cultural landscape.
The exterior entrance featuring the original 19th-century brickwork and the transition into the expansive, high-domed foyer.
Select seats in the center rows for the best acoustic experience, as sound can occasionally bounce off the high vaulted ceiling.
Arrive early to appreciate the preserved industrial architecture in the foyer before entering the main hall.
Bring a light sweater or jacket, as the large, high-ceilinged building can be cooler than modern, enclosed theaters.
Do not expect a traditional proscenium stage; the theater frequently uses non-traditional configurations that may change your expected viewing angle.
Operates on a seasonal production cycle; typically closed during major mid-summer months when the theater is between production runs.
Smart casual; avoid bulky outerwear in the seating area to keep aisles clear.
