 The association was established in 1898, after an initiative from actor Sigurd Asmundsen at a birthday party in 1897, followed by a preparatory meeting in April 1898, and a constituent meeting 27 October 1898.The first chairman was Sigvard Gundersen, with Johanne Dybwad as vice chairman, and Christian Sandal as first secretary.Important issues during the early years were contractual conditions, pensions, and regulation of foreign ensembles.