Stockholm's Ghost Theatre Experience
Stockholm's Ghost Theatre brought theatrical tours to Gamla Stan (the historic old town) on March 7. The guided experience immersed visitors in dark legends and famous characters from Stockholm's past through live performance and storytelling. It's a creative new way to experience the city's haunting history beyond traditional walking tours.
The theatrical experience is a production of Historiska Vingslag ("Historical Wings"), a company founded in the autumn of 2012 by brothers Johan and Anders. Their goal was to create a "promenadteater," or walking theatre, that combines Stockholm's rich history with live acting. The founders bring a unique blend of expertise to the tours. Both have experience in theatrical productions and as historical guides. Anders also studied history and archaeology at Uppsala University, while both brothers serve as Royal Guards at the Stockholm Palace, giving them an intimate knowledge of Gamla Stan. Unlike a traditional ghost walk that relies solely on a guide's narration, this experience features actors in period costumes portraying specific characters from Stockholm's past. Visitors might find themselves face-to-face with figures such as an executioner or even King Gustav Vasa himself. The performance is set against the authentic backdrop of Gamla Stan's narrow, winding alleys and squares, many of which date back to the 13th century. The tour delves into grim historical events, including tales of murder, plague, and public executions that have taken place in these very streets over the centuries.
