The construction of the New National Theatre in Tirana is currently in its first phase. After completing the challenging underground work, the building is beginning to take shape, and construction is progressing toward completion by the end of this year.
Designed by renowned contemporary architect Bjarke Ingels and the Danish studio BIG, the new theater will connect with the external space as both a performance structure and a flexible extension of Tirana’s public life. The theater itself will become an integral part of the city, serving as an “actor” within the urban context.
The new theater is being built on the site of the current National Theatre, situated at the intersection of pedestrian axes. The building is divided into two main sections: one for the actors and administration, and another for the public. The public will have access through the main facade or a secondary entrance beneath an arch. Additionally, the roof of the building will function as an open-air theater/auditorium, where the public can sit on stepped seating for various events and activities.
Prime Minister Edi Rama visited the construction site today to inspect the progress, accompanied by the Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation Blendi Gonxhja and the Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Tirana, Anuela Ristani.
“We will finish the shell by October, and then we will proceed with the artistic phase. The mechanical systems for stage designs and other technological facilities will be installed in the next phase of the project. The goal behind the spaces being created—is to create a public space that feels like an extension of the building” explained Deputy Mayor Ristani, referring to the displayed project.
The New Theatre will also be integrated with surrounding infrastructure. “There are approximately 4,500 square meters of public space extending to the rear of the building. We’ve also discussed with the architects how the public space will relate to the New Museum of Fine Arts. This integration is key to ensuring cohesion throughout the area,” said Minister Blendi Gonxhja, noting that, “We are also addressing the technological aspects of the stage to elevate the theater’s capabilities. We are now organizing teams with the National Theatre to stay ahead and ensure no details are overlooked.”
Prime Minister Rama emphasized that the New National Theatre will be the most beautiful in the region. “Everything must be completed—the squares at the back, the gallery square, the pedestrian road, and the square in front—all as part of one cohesive project. By the end of October, we will have completed the shell, and the architectural form of the National Theatre will be clear for everyone to see. It will undoubtedly be the most beautiful national theater in the entire region and one of the most stunning built since World War II. Before the war, Europe had monuments unmatched in form, and this project will join that legacy. With a bit more patience, those who mourn the loss of the old building—the nostalgic structure that no longer held sustainable value—will be reassured.
