More than just one of Reykjavík’s most striking landmarks, Harpa is a centre of cultural and social life in the very heart of the city, hosting a number of exciting events this summer – including Midday Music in Eldborg concerts, genuine club atmosphere, and memorable experiential exhibition inspired by Icelandic nature.
“We have two very exciting projects starting now in June,” says Hildur Ottesen Hauksdóttir, marketing manager of Harpa, about the upcoming summer. “Firstly, we are reviving the Midday Music concerts in Eldborg, while the other event is brand new—genuine club atmosphere in Norðurljós recital hall on Friday and Saturday nights.” According to Hildur, this is in response to great demand. “Our guests continuously show a significant and steady interest in experiencing Eldborg, our main hall, and want to hear live music there.” As for the club nights, they represent a response to the strong demand for concert venues in the city centre.
Midday Music in Eldborg
At the lunchtime concerts, some of Iceland’s leading musicians will perform their favourite songs on Harpa’s grand stage with the majestic Eldborg hall as a backdrop. Here, spectators can enjoy a magical 30-minute music session at lunchtime, according to Hildur. “The audience can expect a mix of Icelandic pop classics and timeless international gems where they sit on stage in an intimate atmosphere, with beautiful song and the sounds from the exquisite Steinway grand piano in Eldborg.”
A summer evening in Harpa – Comedy & Live Music
“This project is actually a brand-new concept with series of stand-up comedy and live music in Harpa’s beautiful Norðurljós (Northern Lights) hallwhere guests,” says Hildur. “It’s a new stand-up and concert series on Friday and Saturday nights where there will be a genuine club atmosphere, both relaxed and fun. The hall will feature small round tables and chairs for guests and an open bar inside the auditorium. The evening starts off with a hilarious stand-up comedy show in English, followed by a live concert after the short intermission in between.
CIRCULEIGHT – An innovative installation inspired by Icelandic nature
Finally, Hildur points out the immersive installation CIRCULEIGHT, which encapsulates the elemental powers of Iceland’s landscape through the use of sophisticated visual communication technologies, engaging interactivity, and the mesmerizing compositions of musician Högni Egilsson of Hjaltalín and GusGus fame. “CIRCULEIGHT is an interactive installation, offering a family-friendly display that seeks inspiration from Iceland’s distinct and dynamic natural environment—from its volcanic lava and water bodies to its lush flora—thereby conveying the enthralling continuum of life. Visitors are invited to interact with the exhibit, influencing the art piece through gestural movements and ambulation within the space. Concurrently, the entrancing melodies composed by Högni Egilsson elevate the overall sensory experience.”
