2_Q9_ScanMag_78_July_2015_Text_JOE _Scan Magazine 1 07/07/2015 15:47 Page 61
Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Culture in Norway
fairy-tale. “I’d say it’s the summer’s most beautiful experience,” says Fjeldet knowingly. “There’s something about how the cultural performances heighten the perception of nature that’s absolutely extraordinary.” Those more predisposed to sedentary events may find the cave concert just as thrilling, with Eplemøya Songlag providing a musical enactment few can outdo. “They’re recognised as Norway’s best acapella group – regardless of genre,” remarks Fjeldet, adding: “The cave’s acoustics are amazing. The combination is, well, nothing short of magical.”
the plate and become an indispensable part of Kalottspel. The festival is essentially a gathering for all: a place to have fun, learn and feel inspired. Local will, an unparalleled setting and professional knowledge – that’s what makes us who we are.” Kalottspel takes place on 4 – 9 August. For more information, please visit: www.kalottspel.no and www.facebook.com/kalottisoi
Experience Kalottspel 2015: Vamp / Arvvas Susanne Lundeng Erlend Viken Trio Eplemøya Songlag RiM / Durmål Hällström and Bergström Min – ensemblet Erlend Apneseth / Thomas and Guro Lakselv Spellemannslag Målselv Spellemannslag
Space to play, dance and evolve Kalottspel’s acts are known to be of high quality, and some now famous performers have seen their careers take off at the folk festival. Folk-rock collab Hekla Stålstrenga and dance ensemble Kartellet are two examples who are known throughout Norway for their distinctive takes on folk culture. “That our vision is naturally intertwined with our local community shows in the artists who have been inspired by the festival,” explains Fjeldet. “It’s been wonderful seeing artists such as Hekla Stålstrenga grow from a local act to national folk darlings. Now they have even had a documentary made about them on national TV. Kartellet came into being during our 2012 festival, and now they are widely known.” Local will and professional knowledge Kalottspel has indeed proved that it supplies continuously fertile ground for folk musicians and performers, which is one of the festival’s main objectives. With an aim to exist “with and because of the people”, it is clear that there would not be much of a festival without both talent on stage and keen helpers backstage. “That festival-goers are moved by the immense talent represented in the programme is one thing, but many leave equally amazed by the efforts of volunteers and our ‘local heroes’,” muses Fjeldet. Explaining how residents deliver everything from transport to freshly made coffee and ‘sveler’ (traditional thick pancakes), she is noticeably proud of the machinery that makes each edition of Kalottspel run smoothly. “Local residents have really stepped up to
Issue 78 | July 2015 | 61