Teater Rival
Step into Art Deco glamour at Teater Rival, where ABBA legend Benny Andersson's reborn cinema stage pulses with theater, concerts, and Södermalm's electric vibe—history meets live magic nightly.
Teater Rival is a vibrant performing arts theater housed within the iconic Hotel Rival on Mariatorget in Stockholm's Södermalm district. Originally opened as a grand cinema in 1937 with 1,218 seats, it was transformed in 2003 by ABBA's Benny Andersson into a modern venue for shows, concerts, lectures, and theater. The Art Deco-inspired interior blends historic charm with contemporary flair, hosting diverse performances in an intimate 735-seat salong. Part of a multifaceted entertainment complex including a bistro and bar, it offers an electrifying atmosphere for live arts enthusiasts in the heart of trendy Södermalm.
A brief summary to Teater Rival
- Mariatorget 3, Stockholm, 118 48, SE
- Click to display
- Click to display
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Teater Rival.
- Book tickets early for popular shows like stand-up or musicals, as the 735-seat salong sells out fast, especially weekends.
- Combine your visit with dinner at Rival Bistro for velvet-themed ambiance and pre-show bites in the same historic building.
- Arrive 30 minutes ahead to soak in the Art Deco interiors and grab a drink at Watson’s Bar before curtain.
- Check the schedule for lectures or special events, offering unique insights in an intimate setting.
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Getting There
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Metro
Take the red line T14 or T19 to Mariatorget station, 2-minute walk uphill via Hornsgatan; frequent services every 3-5 minutes, 25-35 SEK per ticket.
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Bus
Board bus 3 or 53 from central Stockholm to Mariatorget stop, 15-25 minutes depending on traffic; operates every 10-15 minutes daytime, 30 SEK single fare.
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Walking
From Slussen station, stroll 12-15 minutes along Högalidskyrkogården paths; mostly flat with some cobblestones, suitable for most fitness levels.
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Taxi
Hail a taxi from Stockholm Central, 10-15 minutes in light traffic; fares 150-250 SEK, limited parking nearby so drop-off only.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Drink Options
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Seating Areas
Discover more about Teater Rival
Origins in Golden Age Cinema
In 1937, Biograf Rival opened its doors on Mariatorget, becoming Ri-Teatrarnas largest movie palace with 1,218 seats. Architect Rolf Hagstrand designed the building, while Danish artist Markus Madrid Lorentzon crafted the striking Art Deco interiors. From the start, it mixed cinema with hotel rooms, a restaurant, café, and apartments, pioneering a new entertainment model in Stockholm.Wartime Secrets and Cultural Hub
During World War II, the theater played an unexpected role when Finnish partisans used it in 1944 to sort and microfilm intelligence from the Continuation War. Post-war, it remained a beloved venue for films and variety shows, evolving into a cornerstone of Södermalm's cultural scene amid the neighborhood's bohemian vibe.Benny Andersson's Visionary Revival
In 2002, ABBA musician Benny Andersson, along with partners Christer Sandahl and Christer Hägglund, acquired the then-Aston Hotel and Rival cinema. A major renovation followed, led by interior architect Karin Ahlgren and architect Anders Bergkrantz. Hotel Rival debuted on September 1, 2003, with the theater reborn as a versatile salong seating 735, emphasizing high-quality shows, theater, concerts, and lectures.Art Deco Splendor Meets Modern Comfort
The salong retains its opulent Art Deco heritage, with velvet themes echoing the hotel's rooms. Patrons enter a space where historic grandeur fuses with sleek Scandinavian design—think plush seating, dramatic lighting, and walls adorned with evocative photography. The stage has welcomed stars, from stand-up comics to musical acts, creating unforgettable nights.Programming Powerhouse Since Reopening
From 2003, the venue hosted hundreds of events, including the Swedish premiere of Mamma Mia! with ABBA members present. Hits like the play Rainman starring Robert Gustafsson ran for sold-out months. Today, it focuses on premium productions: theater, concerts, lectures, and cabaret, drawing crowds to its acoustically superb hall.Södermalm's Entertainment Epicenter
Nestled in lively Södermalm, Teater Rival anchors Mariatorget's energy. Adjacent to Hotel Rival's bistro and Watson’s Bar, it offers seamless evenings of dining and performance. The theater's legacy as a multi-faceted pleasure palace endures, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge arts in one of Stockholm's most charismatic spots.Explore the best of what Teater Rival has to offer
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Discover the vibrant culture of Stockholm at Teater Rival, a premier performing arts theater offering exceptional live entertainment in a historic setting.
