The New Seat of the Baltic Opera to Be Built at Plac Zebrań Ludowych | Gdańsk University of Technology

On Monday, July 14, a meeting of the Social Committee for the Support of the Construction of the Metropolitan Baltic Opera was held. During the meeting, the results of the expert team's work were presented. Based on urban planning documents, technical conditions, opinions from the Pomeranian Regional Heritage Conservator, and on-site assessments, the team unanimously recommended Plac Zebrań Ludowych as the most suitable site for the project. Last year, the construction of a new opera building was identified as one of seven key developmental challenges for the Pomeranian Voivodeship in a report prepared by the Employers of Pomerania in collaboration with Gdańsk University of Technology.

“The current building of the Baltic Opera is reaching the end of its service life. Pomerania deserves an iconic structure that is multifunctional and serves not only opera but various artistic communities,” stated Mieczysław Struk, Marshal of the Pomeranian Voivodeship. “The Baltic Opera, like the development of Gdańsk University of Technology or southern Gdańsk, is one of those projects that inspire imagination and contribute to the growth of the entire region.”

Gdańsk University of Technology played a central role in preparing the site recommendation. The Rector's Economic Advisory Team established seven expert groups, one of which focused specifically on the opera's location. This group was led by Ryszard Trykosko, with several analyses and reports prepared by experts from the university. Their work culminated in the preparation of a “white book” that set forth functional and operational guidelines for the new facility.

“Special thanks for their contributions go to Ryszard Trykosko and Professor Szczepański from Gdańsk University of Technology. Our experiences with the construction of the European Solidarity Centre, the Museum of the Second World War, and the Shakespeare Theatre show that such facilities must be multifunctional,” noted Mayor Aleksandra Dulkiewicz. “Plac Zebrań Ludowych is already an effective venue for open-air events, and the new opera should also provide space for outdoor programming. Constructing the building is only the beginning—the challenge will be its maintenance and sustaining a high artistic standard.”

Plac Zebrań Ludowych was deemed the most appropriate location not only due to its size and accessibility but also owing to the absence of heritage protection restrictions, proximity to the city center, and potential to host a multifunctional cultural center. As emphasized by Prof. Jakub Szczepański, the site, spanning 27,000 square meters, offers the opportunity to accommodate not only the main opera hall but also an outdoor auditorium for over 12,000 spectators, aligned with the city’s central axis and integrated into the transportation network.

Although this site has long been used for hosting outdoor events, it has never been permanently developed. Relocating the opera will allow for a ground-up investment in accordance with contemporary technical and acoustic standards, while also maximizing the potential of the space. The new location will make it possible to design of a facility that truly responds to the needs of performers and audiences—featuring professional backstage facilities, educational spaces, and areas for accompanying events. The relocation also aims to broaden public access to the opera and attract new audiences. The expert team considered various locations, including the Imperial Shipyard and Plac Węglowy, but only Plac Zebrań Ludowych met all key criteria.

Currently, the Baltic Opera is housed in a building on Aleja Zwycięstwa, originally constructed in 1915 as an equestrian hall. Over time, it was adapted into a sports and entertainment venue, hosting events such as boxing matches. After 1947, the building was repurposed for cultural functions and underwent numerous renovations. Despite its long-standing cultural use, its technical and functional conditions no longer meet modern standards. Hence, the construction of a new opera house is not only long-awaited but fundamentally necessary.

The next phase of the project involves preparing a functional and spatial program, followed by the announcement of an international architectural competition. The estimated investment cost is approximately PLN 800 million, with implementation planned for the early part of the next decade.

During the event, the following guests also took the floor:

Zbigniew Canowiecki, President of Employers of Pomerania:

"One year ago, at the initiative of Employers of Pomerania and in collaboration with Gdańsk University of Technology, we held debates that resulted in the document ‘Key Development Challenges for the Pomeranian Voivodeship’, identifying the opera's construction as a strategic regional development element. The Rector’s Economic Advisory Team at Gdańsk University of Technology worked in seven expert groups, including the opera group chaired by Ryszard Trykosko. Their work led to the recommendation of the opera’s location, which has now been forwarded to local authorities. We are at a historic moment, with hopes for a resolution endorsing this site and the signing of a letter of intent."

Romuald Wicza-Pokojski, Director of the Baltic Opera:

"This is a historic moment. Our goal is to leave a lasting mark and create a better future for coming generations. As Armstrong once said, it may be a small step for us, but it is a giant leap for our entire community."

Ryszard Trykosko, Chair of the Expert Group:

"The working group has been active since December of last year, presenting proposals in June. Identifying the appropriate location was crucial. I extend heartfelt thanks to all those involved in the project, especially the Gdańsk municipal services, the heritage conservator, the Baltic Opera, and Gdańsk University of Technology, which hosted and supported the team's efforts."

Prof. Jakub Szczepański, Gdańsk University of Technology:

"The team’s work began with an analysis of needs and potential locations, followed by determining the land-use framework. We analyzed opera buildings across Poland and Europe. The most compelling case was the Copenhagen Opera House, which may serve as a foundation for further design work."

Magdalena Zabłotna, Baltic Opera:

"We recommend that the Metropolitan Baltic Opera feature two performance halls (a large one and a chamber hall), an outdoor stage in the form of an amphitheater, educational rooms, professional stage and costume workshops, and conference spaces. The opera is intended to be an open venue, functioning year-round as a center for culture, education, and events—a true icon and symbol of our times."