Orchestra of Norrlandsoperan

Since its foundation in 1974, Norrlandsoperan has developed from a regional opera ensemble into a centre for performing arts, while preserving its regional reach. Situated in the center of Umeå, Norrlandsoperan incorporates a Symphony Orchestra and distinct departments for instrumental music & opera, dance, and contemporary art, housing four stages and production workshops as well as studios. It is a publicly funded cultural institution, with ownership split between Region Västerbotten (60%) and Umeå Kommun (40%).

Norrlandsoperan was founded in 1974 as a direct result of the Swedish cultural reform the same year. The musical theater group Sångens makt constituted the core of the newly formed opera ensemble. The ensemble initially had to use temporary premises but soon found a more permanent home, at Umeå Folkets hus. In 1984 Norrlandsoperan moved to the old fire station in Umeå, which was built in 1937 in a functionalist style and designed by Wejke & Ödeen. The fire station underwent extensive rebuilding and expansion, designed by Olle Qvarnström. In 2002 the newly built theater and concert hall, which is incorporated with the old opera house, was inaugurated.

Every year in May, since 2006, Norrlandsoperan has arranged the annual MADE festival; indoors, on its premises, and outdoors, on Operaplan square. NOP also assists with other arts organisations,
such as the MADE performing arts festival and the Umeå Jazz Festival.