Bergen, Norway: National Theater

Let's call this a two-for-one shot. Not only do you get a photo of an important building in Bergen, but the statue is quite interesting too.

The National Theater goes back to 1850 in Bergen. It was the idea of Ole Bull, who was a violinist at the time. In fact, Bull was something of a rock star in terms of popularity at the time, even though no one would have used the term then. The current facility opened in 1909, and was a good-sized part of Bergen life for decades. The structure was expanded a couple of times along the way due to its popularity. Then World War II came along, and the building took some major damage.

Happily, the building was restored to something resembling its original shape in 2001. About 20 productions per year are offered there.  

Ah, but what about the guy in front? That's Henrik Ibsen. If you spend an hour in Norway, his name probably will come up. Ibsen is considered one of the most influential playwrights of his time and carries the title "the father of realism." His work is so popular that only Shakespeare's plays are performed more times around the world. 

Ibsen was a writer-in-residence and an art director of the National Theater. "Pillars of Society" debuted there in 1877. The sculpture made him look a little, um, odd, thanks to the work around the eyes. Well, it's easier to notice it that way.