The current Opera House by the Töölönlahti bay was inaugurated on 30 November 1993. To mark its 30th anniversary, the house has undergone extensive refurbishments, and was closed to visitors from May to August.
The changes carried out within the main stage systems included the stage mechanics; the control system and its components were upgraded, and the orchestra lift and stage tower were renewed. In addition, the performance technology cabling was updated to modern standards and the acoustics of the stage was improved.
Electrical works included changing and restoring close to 2,000 lamps. The general lighting of the main stage and the foyers and lobbies, and the lighting control system, now better serve performances and the use of the building. This also improved the energy efficiency of the Opera House.
The HVAC technology refurbishment comprised the update of the heating technology of the facade on the Töölönlahti bay side, and the renovation of about six kilometres of sewer pipes. In the changing rooms, almost 50 bathrooms were refurbished. The renovation also included a renewal of the constructions of the Amphitheatre by the Töölönlahti bay.
The renovation was managed by Senate Properties, the company that administers state-owned properties, including the Opera House. The planning and timing of the renovation were done in close cooperation, in order for the works to cause as little inconvenience as possible for the activities in the house and for the customers of the National Opera and Ballet.
“The genuine commitment and smooth cooperation of all partners was essential for successfully completing this project within a very tight schedule”, says Joel Saarinen, pleased Construction Manager at Senate Properties.
Ballet Ribbon welcomes visitors
Visitors entering the Opera House from the Mannerheimintie street are met by The Ballet Ribbon, a new illuminated work of art hanging from the ceiling in the Aino lobby. The stylish piece of art was designed by Vertti & Co. The metal frame of the art light was made by JP-Set Oy, whose products include pressure vessels and pipes, as well as steel railings. Opera House staff has planned the hanging and carried out the installation of the piece.
Opera and ballet performances contain numerous visual moments, one of which has been captured in this image of a flying ballet ribbon. The colour of the illuminated artwork can be changed according to season or performance.
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