Newsletter Season 2026
The 2026 Season Opens – Opera, Concerts and Lectures
We launch the season with daily guided tours of the theatre building starting 1 May. On the same day, the Theatre Shop also opens, offering an expanded selection with a clear connection to the theatre.
On 12 May, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the theatre’s unique stage machinery through the themed tour From Theatre to Model. In connection with the 400th anniversary of Queen Christina’s birth, this summer’s theme – 17th-century Italy – is introduced through two lecture-concerts on 23 and 30 May: Music, History and Power in 17th-Century Italy.
World-renowned soprano Elisabet Strid will perform concerts on 6 June in London and 12 June in Stockholm, with all proceeds donated to the theatre. We are deeply honoured that Sir Antonio Pappano will appear as presenter in London.
Welcome into a Baroque world!
Music, History and Power in 17th-Century Italy
– where Baroque Italy is brought to life through music and storytelling
In 2026, we mark the 400th anniversary of Queen Christina of Sweden’s birth. To honour this jubilee, the Drottningholm Palace Theatre presents two lecture-concerts with musician and musicologist Andrés Locatelli, joined by musicians from the theatre’s orchestra and vocal soloists.
The lectures are held in English and invite the audience on a journey through the rich sound world of the Italian Baroque, focusing on the relationship between political power and musical art.
MUSICAL LIFE IN ROME AT THE ARRIVAL OF QUEEN CHRISTINA OF SWEDEN (1655) | 23 May
Queen Christina was one of the most controversial and fascinating figures in 17th-century European cultural life. After abdicating and converting to Catholicism, she was given a grand reception upon her arrival in Rome in 1655.
L’INCORONAZIONE DI POPPEA (1643) AND THE LEGACY OF CLAUDIO MONTEVERDI | 30 May
Prepare for summer! Ahead of this season’s grand production of Claudio Monteverdi’s L’incoronazione di Poppea at the Drottningholm Palace Theatre, this lecture focuses on this landmark work in opera history, as well as the life of its creator and the legacy he left behind.
ELISABET STRID | 6 & 12 June
World soprano Elisabet Strid will give two exclusive concerts in support of the Drottningholm Court Theatre. On 6 June at St Paul’s Church, Knightsbridge in London – with Sir Antonio Pappano among the presenters – and on 12 June in the Déjeuner Salon at the Drottningholm Court Theatre. All proceeds go directly to the theatre.
FROM THEATRE TO MODEL | 12 May, 18 September
A unique guided experience limited to only 12 participants. The visit begins inside the Drottningholm Palace Theatre, where the original 18th-century stage machinery is presented and its ingenious mechanisms explained. The machinery is not shown during regular tours, as the historical environment is too sensitive to withstand wear.
The experience continues with the 1:10 scale theatre model, currently being completed by stage manager Christer Nilsson – a rare opportunity to get close to both history and the ongoing work behind the theatre’s stage world.
L'incoronazione di Poppea
Hum Hum Hume
During the season we also present a rich festival programme, “The 18th Century on the Catwalk”, as well as an exhibition of garments for a queen – a selection of dresses and costumes worn by H.M. Queen Silvia during her 50 years as Queen of Sweden.
We offer many interesting courses as well as guided tours daily from May to September. Please visit dtm.se to read more about our programme.
Drottningholms Slottsteater
Box 6, 178 02 Drottningholm
kommunikation@dtm.se