About Kilden

This is Kilden performing arts centre

Kilden performing arts centre is the region’s hub for music, performing arts, and cultural experiences. The programming departments— the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra, Kilden Theater, Kilden Opera, and Kilden Kultur —are united under a single organization. This means that audiences can enjoy theater, opera, symphony concerts, family performances, stand-up comedy, talks, and concerts featuring Norwegian and international artists—all under one roof. Through our Kilden Dialog initiative, we also combine cultural activities with social engagement.

Every year, we stage 900 performances, concerts, and events, which together reach over 200,000 audience members both in our own venues and on tour throughout Agder. Few arts and culture centers offer such a wide-ranging program throughout the year.

More art, more culture

The Kilden is located in the heart of Kristiansand's new cultural axis.

When you visit Kilden, you're just a short distance from:

Kunstsilo
Gvino
Fabriken
Nupenparken
Torvet and Markens Gate
Kristiansand Train Station
Odderøya’s beautiful hiking trails, viewpoints, galleries, and workshop.

Many people combine a visit to Kilden with art exhibitions, dining out, or an evening by the sea.

People

Our approximately 240 employees are the heart of Kilden. With 60 different professional groups and 27 nationalities, we represent a diverse range of expertise, perspectives, and experiences. Together, we work in accordance with our values of quality, inclusivity, courage, and commitment, guided by a shared vision: to touch people’s lives and enrich society.

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The building and the architecture

performing arts centre was completed in 2012 and has since been recognized for its innovative, beautiful, and exciting solutions. From a structural and acoustic standpoint, konsertsalen is one of Europe’s most advanced venues for live music. Teatersalen makes it possible to stage full-scale productions of musicals and grand operas. Hidden behind the scenes are exceptional, high-tech solutions that give directors, set designers, and lighting designers unique creative freedom. Located on Odderøya, right by the sea, Kilden is one of the region’s most famous landmarks. The distinctive oak wave wall and the award-winning architecture are attractions in their own right.

Since its inception, Kilden has produced and delivered art experiences to a large and enthusiastic audience. Around 200,000 people visit the building every year, which has four auditoriums with seating for 2,270 people.

More about the building and architecture

The art in Kilden

"You walk up the stairs and meet the wall. A colorful surface that is a breeding ground for the imagination. The tone is set. Let the music play. Just throw yourself into the experience. This is for you."

Gro Kraft, KORO - Public Art Norway

Learn more about art

Sustainability at Kilden

We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future. Sustainability is a recurring principle in Kilden's strategy for the period 2021-2025 and has for several years been an integral part of both stage production, operations and decision-making processes.

Read more about sustainability in Kilden