Ulriksdal’s Palace Theatre Confidencen: Historical continuity and artistic innovation at the palace theatre

By Malin Norman

Confidencen stands as a living monument to Swedish cultural history, with the country’s oldest preserved Rococo theatre still in active use and enchanting audiences. Take the opportunity this season to experience the magic of the buzzing theatre, including Confidencen Opera & Music Festival, which presents a unique female edition.

Located in the heart of Ulriksdal Palace Park, Confidencen has a rich and varied history. The theatre was built in the 1750s by Queen Lovisa Ulrika, who received it as a wedding gift. With the help of architect Carl Fredrik Adelcrantz, the former manège, originally built in the 1670s, was transformed into a fully equipped theatre in the latest Rococo style, with room for an audience of 200. The adjacent inn was turned into grand salons for the royal family and their guests.

Court singer Ann Hallenberg as Alcina in La Liberazione by Francesca Caccini. Photo: Klara G.

Swedish theatre flourished during the late 18th century, however it fell into disrepair after the assassination of King Gustav III in 1792 and spent more than 200 years in hibernation. Princess Christina and world-renowned opera singer Kjerstin Dellert were behind Confidencen’s revival in the 1970s.

“The theatre has been carefully restored to its former glory and is buzzing with activity once again,” says Madeleine Onne, dancer at the Royal Swedish Court and now theatre director and CEO of Confidencen. “It stands as a living monument of the origins of Swedish theatre history, and thanks to Kjerstin Dellert this is also a modern-day and inclusive venue. Every season, we have a broad programme of concerts, theatre, ballet and opera performances in an authentic 18th-century setting. Our aim is that everyone should feel welcome.”

Auditorium and stage. Photo: Shomei.

The palace theatre opens for the season on 30 April and stays open until September. A highlight is Confidencen Opera & Music Festival, which kicks off on 30 July. This year’s edition celebrates women composers of the Baroque with a fully staged opera production and a selection of concerts with opera arias honouring queens, amazons, and heroines.

“Just a short journey by taxi or bus from Stockholm’s city centre, you get an unforgettable experience in a fantastic setting – it’s crazy beautiful,” smiles Onne. “Go for a walk in the park, watch a performance, and enjoy a glass of Champagne in the theatre’s tent. It’s well worth a visit!”

Web: confidencen.se
Facebook: Confidencen Ulriksdals slottsteater
Instagram: @confidencen
Confidencen
Slottsallén 3, 170 79 Soln

Confidencen Opera & Music Festival 2026, Female Edition

From 30 July, La Liberazione with Ann Hallenberg, Kristina Hammarström and Martin Vanberg
12 August, concert: Femmina forte – A Jubilee Tribute
14 August, concert: En confidence– In Wilhelmina’s Footsteps