Theatre, dance and music

State action is intended to increase geographical and social accessibility to theatre, dance and music at the same time as conditions conducive to continued high artistic quality are established. The infrastructure of artistic institutions is an important part of culture policy action. Every year, publicly-supported theatre, dance and music institutions and independent groups attract audiences of around seven million people. In addition, the national theatres of the Royal Opera and the Royal Dramatic Theatre together attract audiences of some 500 000 people.

Nationally and regionally

The Royal Swedish Opera (Kungliga Operan) and the Royal Dramatic Theatre (Dramaten) are national theatres for musical theatre and theatre. Together with Riksteatern - Swedish national touring theatre, Concerts Sweden (Rikskonsterter) and Dansens hus - a centre for contemporary dance, they have initiation, promotion and production tasks of national importance. There are county theatre groups and county music organisations in almost every county, and certain counties also have symphony or chamber orchestras, music theatres and regional dance ensembles. The state bears sole responsibility for the national theatres and the other national institutions.

Responsibility and support

The county councils and municipalities are responsible for the county institutions, but the State provides annual subsidies. The State also provides considerable support for independent theatre, dance and music through grants to activities like independent groups, production associations and record production.