Best Of Reykjavík 2023: Best Theatre

Best Theater

Tjarnarbíó

Tjarnargata 12, 101 Reykjavík

Photo by Art Bicnick

This one really is a no-brainer. It’s smack in the middle of downtown Reykjavík, it has regular performances in English, and it caters to an incredibly diverse range of performers and performances. Despite the recent attempts of the grand dames of theater, Reykjavík City Theater and the National Theater, to branch out into new avenues, Tjarnarbíó manages to highlight how staid they are in comparison. Tjarnarbíó is an incredibly busy theater with seemingly 1-2 premiers a week, everything from dramas dealing with burning social issues to interactive shows for babies. All while retaining a doggedly independent spirit.

Runner-Up:

Gaflaraleikhúsið

Víkingastræti 2, 220 Hafnarfirði

Photo by Art Bicnick

A truly local theater, tucked away in an alley by the Hafnarfjörður viking village.This 220-seater has, since 2011, managed to put on a series of successful productions, appealing to a wide age range, and providing an avenue for new talent and seasoned pros alike. While it may be more geared towards lighter fare and less concerned with nude thespians flagellating themselves through Beckett, it’s a rare and refreshing treat to see a true independent flourishing outside the system.

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