Chinese Pagoda

Overview

Nestled within the enchanting Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark, stands a unique architectural gem often affectionately referred to by visitors as the Chinese Pagoda. Its official name, however, is the Pantomime Theatre (Pantomimeteatret). This captivating open-air theatre is not merely a decorative element but a vibrant, living stage where classical Italian commedia dell'arte traditions and ballet performances come alive, adding a distinct oriental charm to the historic amusement park.

The theatre is instantly recognizable by its striking Chinese-inspired design and, most notably, its magnificent mechanical peacock curtain. This iconic curtain, which dramatically unfolds like a peacock's tail, signals the start of every performance and has become an enduring symbol of the theatre itself. It serves as a testament to Tivoli's long-standing tradition of blending diverse cultural aesthetics to create a world of wonder and amusement for its guests.

History & Cultural Background

The Pantomime Theatre's story began in 1874, when it replaced an earlier, smaller playhouse on the same site within Tivoli Gardens. Designed by the renowned architect Vilhelm Dahlerup, who was also behind the Royal Danish Theatre, this structure emerged from a fascination with exoticism prevalent in 19th-century Europe. Dahlerup, though never having visited China, drew inspiration from images of East Asian buildings to craft what became a European interpretation of traditional Chinese architecture.

The theatre's design reflects the 'Chinoiserie' style, a European artistic trend that incorporated real or imagined elements of Chinese art and design. This romanticized view of the Orient contributed to Tivoli Gardens' initial vision as a magical paradise, transporting visitors to distant lands. The unique fan-shaped front curtain, depicting a peacock, is said to have been inspired by the Bataclan Theatre in Paris, with Tivoli's Artistic Director, Bernhard Olsen, conceiving the idea of the splendid peacock as its central motif.

Since its inauguration, the Pantomime Theatre has been dedicated to preserving and performing pantomime in the classical commedia dell'arte tradition. This traditional Italian theatrical form relies on masked characters such as Cassander, Columbine, Harlequin, and Pierrot, and is performed without spoken dialogue, making it universally accessible to Tivoli's international visitors. In the early 20th century, ballets were also introduced to its repertoire, further enriching the theatre's cultural offerings.

What Makes It Special

Beyond its striking visual appeal, the Pantomime Theatre holds a special place in Tivoli's heart and history. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the park and has been designated a listed landmark, recognizing its architectural and cultural significance. The theatre's enduring uniqueness lies in its commitment to a performance tradition that spans centuries and its singular mechanical peacock curtain, which still requires five individuals to operate manually, a charming nod to its historical roots.

The stage itself is a marvel of ingenious design, featuring a steep rake and utilizing backcloths in a 'Roman blind style' rather than a traditional fly tower, a technical solution born from its open-air design. Performances here offer a rare glimpse into a theatrical art form that is both playful and deeply rooted in European cultural heritage, presented in a setting that evokes the grandeur of distant lands.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

A beautiful maxim, 'Med Folket Fælles Glæde' (meaning 'Shared Joy with the People'), is inscribed in Chinese characters above the stage, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of Tivoli Gardens itself – a place designed for collective amusement and joy. This inscription speaks volumes about the park's founder, Georg Carstensen's philosophy, who famously told King Christian VIII that 'when the people are amusing themselves, they do not think about politics.'

Adding to its allure, the theatre has seen continuous artistic evolution. In a remarkable contemporary touch, HM Queen Margrethe of Denmark has served as the theatre's resident set designer since 2001, creating exquisite sets and costumes for several fairytale ballets based on Hans Christian Andersen's tales. For its 150th anniversary in 2024, Queen Margrethe designed a new peacock curtain in shimmering blues and greens, further cementing the theatre's royal connection and artistic legacy.

One of the most delightful and unusual aspects for visitors is the moment the show begins: unlike most theatres, the Pantomime Theatre's curtain falls as the performance commences, a unique theatrical quirk that never fails to charm its audience.

Visitor Perspective

For any traveler to Tivoli Gardens, a visit to the Pantomime Theatre is an essential experience, offering a step back in time and a journey into a world of timeless entertainment. The theatre provides daily performances during the summer season, often featuring Tivoli's own ballet company, the Tivoli Ballet Theatre. The open-air setting means audiences enjoy performances under the Danish sky, adding to the magical ambiance.

Attending a performance allows one to appreciate the intricate beauty of the Chinese-style architecture, the vibrant costumes, and the traditional artistry of pantomime and ballet, all presented in a familial and accessible manner. The absence of dialogue makes it an ideal attraction for international visitors of all ages, ensuring that the stories of love, laughter, and jest are understood and enjoyed by everyone. It's a place where history, art, and the joy of shared experience converge, creating lasting memories for those who gather before its peacock curtain.