Dutch National Opera (Nationale Opera) resides in the imposing double building at Waterlooplein in Amsterdam, lovingly called Stopera by Amsterdammers — a portmanteau of Stadhuis (city hall) and Opera, since the city hall and opera house are indeed united under one roof. Opened in 1986 with around 1,600 seats, the house is one of the most modern opera houses in Europe. Dutch National Opera produces about ten opera premieres per season and is considered one of the most innovative opera companies on the continent — under Pierre Audi (1988-2018) the house became a workshop of contemporary opera interpretation, regularly working with top directors like Peter Sellars and Robert Wilson.
Because the city hall and opera share one building, a freshly married couple could in theory walk straight from the registry office to their opera box.
At a glance
- Type
- Opera house
- Location
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Address
- Amstel 3, 1011 PN Amsterdam