The Reykjavík Theatre Company (RTC) was founded in 1897 when two existing companies in Reykjavík combined, performing in the then newly built Iðnó (Craftsmens' House). With Indriði Einarsson (1851-1939) as its Director, RTC became the fertile ground in which Iceland's professional theatre developed. Einarsson dedication to professional theatre champion, Sigurður Guðmundsson's (1833-1874), vision of a permanent National Theatre was key in the evolution of Iceland's professional Theatre.

History

RTC was the birthplace of Icelandic Theatre, eventually giving rise to Iceland's National Theatre in 1950. Some of Iceland's most renowned talent, like Stefanía Guðmundsdóttir (1876-1926), played the RTC stage. RTC has had many Directors over the years, including Einar H. Kvaran (1859-1938), Sigurjónsson, Indridi Waage (1902-1963), Lárus Pálsson (1914-1968), Gerd Grieg

Gerd Grieg

Gerd Grieg, née Egede-Nissen was a Norwegian actress.She was born in Bergen. Her parents were Georga Wilhelma Ellertsen and politician Adam Egede-Nissen . Her siblings Aud Egede-Nissen, Ada Kramm, Stig Egede-Nissen, Lill Egede-Nissen and Gøril Havrevold became an actors as well...

, Stephensen, Brynjólfur Jóhannesson (1897-1974) and Sveinn Einarsson

Sveinn Einarsson

Sveinn Einarsson is most known for championing and cultivating professional theatre in Iceland. He was the stage director of more than 70 productions, operas, classics and modern plays, including several world premieres in Iceland and other countries....

(b. 1934). Einarsson took RTC into its modern professional era between 1963 and 1972, becoming Director of The National Theatre of Iceland in 1972. In 1989, RTC moved to the new City Theatre.