Scenkonstmuseet (Museum of Performing Arts), Stockholm

The Swedish Museum of Performing Arts (Scenkonstmuseet), located in Stockholm, is a vibrant and engaging space dedicated to the rich worlds of theatre, dance, music, and other performing arts. Established in 2010 as the Music and Theater Museum, the institution underwent a significant transformation, reopening in 2017 under its current name, following a merger of the Music Museum, Theater Museum, and Puppet Museum. The museum is housed in one of Northern Europe’s oldest preserved industrial buildings, adding a layer of historical significance to the visitor experience.

This museum offers a comprehensive exploration of performing arts, with a focus on interactive and immersive experiences that appeal to visitors of all ages. Rather than following a chronological order, the museum presents its vast collection of 60,000 objects-including stage designs, handwritten song texts, premiere pieces, and over 6,000 musical instruments-through thematic storylines. These exhibits are designed to engage visitors actively, allowing them to participate in various aspects of the performing arts.

Visitors can try on theatre masks, create their music using a variety of instrument samples, or even become part of a virtual dance troupe. One of the museum's highlights is the "gestrument," an innovative feature that combines gesture and instrument, enabling guests to create music through body movements. The museum also features multimedia art and large screens showcasing performances in diverse dance styles, from ballet to flamenco to hip-hop, offering an immersive experience where the audience feels as though the dancers are performing right in front of them.

In addition to the rich array of exhibits, the museum offers amenities like the bistro Kavalleriet, where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal or drink, especially in the summer when outdoor seating is available.