The artistic director of the National Theatre of Iceland, Tinna Gunnlaugsdóttir, said that there was a “state of emergency” at the theatre because of lack of building maintenance, reports the Icelandic National Broadcasting Service. She said water was leaking onto the actors while on stage and theatre guests must step around puddles walking to and from their seats. Fire prevention measures were in order for members of the audience but not so for staff areas. Tinna believes ISK 2.5 billion is needed to renovate the theatre.
Tinna said that a “major effort” was needed to repair the theatre building. It had suffered from lack of maintenance throughout its history. It was designed in the late 1920’s the theatre and that showed, said Tinna. It was “questionable” to continue using the building in its current condition, said Tinna.
Tinna Gunnlaugsdóttir is the wife of Egill Ólafsson, the lead singer of one of Iceland’s most endurable pop groups, Studmenn. She has been the artistic director of the National University since 2005, prior to that she was an actress at the theatre. She graduated from Reyjavík University’s MBA class of 2005.
