The foundation stone was laid by HM King Olav V 22 July 1988.
Olavshallen each year welcomes artists from various genres such as classical music, opera, dance, ballet, pop, rock, country, jazz, world music and children's and family events,[6] shows, theater, cabaret and stand-up comedy shows.
Trondheim Symphony Orchestra has its permanent abode in Olavshallen.
Olavshallen has 260-300 concerts a year and an annual attendance of approximately 150,000.
The managing company Olavshallen AS, owned by the municipality receives no public funding for the operation of the culture.