MagazineSweden issue no 2 2019

SWEDENS

BIGGEST TRAVEL ART THEATRE FOOD & DRINK

No 2 • 2019

MAGAZINE ON TOURISM & LEISURE

SABATON OPEN AIR Sweden’s Metal event of the year returns The Orient Express The legendary train journey across Europe

Urkult A festival out in the wilderness

Festival Survival The ultimate guide on what to pack

P e t e r B r o o k´s v e r s i o n o f G e o r g e s B i z e t´s o p e r a

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Content Issue No 2 • 2019

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PRIDE DISCO PARTY Fun-time duo Peter and Erik are arranging a disco party to beat all disco parties at Stockholm Pride 29th July-3rd August.

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SABATON OPEN AIR Four days of heavy metal music at the Sabaton Open Air Festival in Falun, featuring Apocalyptica, Alestorm, Ensiferum, Candlemass, to name a few on the line-up.

44

GOLD OF LAPLAND

Courtesy: Pipilotti Rist / Hauser & Wirth & Luhring Augustine

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URKULT FESTIVAL Get out and party at this family friendly festival in the middle of Ångermanland’s wilderness.

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Visit the magical landscapes and contrasts of Lapland, Sweden’s north star, shining bright with rich experiences.

THE ORIENT EXPRESS Take a trip on the world’s most legendary and mythical train and pretend to be an Agatha Christie character, lounging at the piano bar with a hint of danger in your eyes.

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PIPILOTTI RIST IN COPENHAGEN Iridescent, sensuous, spectacular.

Pipilotti Rist enchants us with her visually fanciful universe at Louisiana.

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VOLVO MUSEUM Take a journey through the life of the automobile, at Volvo Museum you can see an extensive collection of cars, trucks, buses and other industrial vehicles.

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

7

Editorial

Love it or hate it

Take a journey through time!

At Volvo Museum you can follow the development of cars, trucks, buses and industrial vehicles, along with industrial and marine engines, right through from 1927 to today.

There is also an on-site cafe and a gift shop.

The Brexit saga drags on yet again, driving the whole of Europe absolutely crazy with all the political to-ing and fro-ing. In-out-inout-shake it all about! IN or OUT. Love it or hate it. Can someone please just decide and get on with it.

We are all desperately in need of some distraction away from all the mayhem and worries over trade agreements, rights of residency and what is going to happen to the Europe we know...

It’s time to party!

Why not book your ticket for Sabaton Open Air which will be held in Falun later on in the year? Thrash out all those Brexit anxieties in the mosh pit. Sweden’s heavy metal nirvana is surely the perfect antidote with Sabaton, U.D.O, Apocalyptica, Alestorm, Ensiferum, Candlemass, Riot V, Bloodbound, and Elvenking all confirmed in the festival’s line up on 14-17th August.

For those more attuned to a less frenetic form of stress relief there is Point Music Festival, a more soothing style of festival held on 23-26th May with the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra at its centre. This festival is a celebration of bringing together different orchestral music genres and art forms, where classical chamber music meets DJ club nights. The Canadian multimedia performance Life Reflected will also give a voice to 4 women’s life stories in a thought-provoking show.

Then there is Stockholm Pride for those that are definitely out - although not necessarily out of Europe. From 29th July-3rd August, it is the annual celebration of the LGBTQ community which is now in its 21st year, don’t miss the all-star kicking and dancing finale disco party.

With festivals being such a ‘thing’ these days, we thought that a handy guide about what to pack could come in useful. Check out The Festivalgoer’s Survival Kit on page 26.

Enjoy the party and try to not get hung up about how the Marmite for Kalles Kaviar trade is going to be affected, if and when Brexit should ever actually happen.

Whether you love it or hate it!

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Nicola Green

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9

Noteworthy

The season begins at VIDA

Carl Linnaeus’ home and garden Less than an hour from Stockholm and only twenty minutes from Arlanda, in the university town of Uppsala, you find the home and gardens of Carl Linnaeus. As you step into the beautiful baroque gardens of the world famous botanist and physician you leave the city’s pulse behind. More than a thousand species of Swedish and foreign vegetables, wild flowers, trees and medicinal plants are arranged according to Linnaeus’s classification system, first published in 1735. Recognized as the “Father of Taxonomy”, Linnaeus also invited the binomial system of naming organisms that we still use today.

In Linnaeus’s home you will experience the a unique 18th century atmosphere. You can admire hand-painted linen wallcoverings, furniture, collections of china and textiles. This is where the family entertained friends, where his

five children grew up, and where Linnaeus wrote scientific papers as well as letters to friends and colleagues. He observed, reflected and followed seasonal changes in the garden, which can be seen as his early biology laboratory.

Welcome to the Linnaeus Garden and Museum, open from May 1st!

CARL LINNAEUS’S GARDEN PARTY

In May Linnaeus’s birthday is celebrated in Uppsala. Time travel to a world of rustling silk skirts and glistening shoe buckles. Enjoy a vibrant 18th century festival with music, handicrafts, food and family activities.

Date and venue: May 18 in The Linnaeus Garden, Uppsala AE Villavägen 8, Uppsala www.linnaeus.uu.se

Over the Easter weekend, VIDA Museum & Konsthall in Öland opens its 2019 exhibition season, kicking off with form and design.

Alexander Lervik has been one of Sweden’s most famous designers for almost 20 years.

With a constant curiosity for innovation and revival, Lervik has designed everything from chairs to wristwatches. Light and lighting are something he often returns to in his work, so the exhibition Your Light Leads, which was shown for the first-time during Stockholm Design Week in February 2017, also now comes to VIDA. In close cooperation with the artist Eva Dahlgren, the audience is treated to an experience for all the senses through the medium of glass, light and sound. With installations in a darkened exhibition room in the North Hall at VIDA, glass objects meet in an interaction with light, to music specially composed

by Eva Dahlgren on the theme of light. Some of Alexander’s design items will also be displayed in connection with the exhibition.

The glass objects are made by the skilled glass blowers at Målerås Glasbruk and both Alexander Lervik and Eva Dahlgren have been involved in the process. The exhibition is a technically challenging project that, in addition to light and sound, also contains moving parts. Shadow play, wave patterns and play with textures that resemble nature in different ways are some of the elements of the exhibition. Both Alexander Lervik and Eva Dahlgren will themselves attend the vernissage on Maundy Thursday at VIDA. LOD

There are seven silver and goldsmiths who together make up the LOD, and who all have a qualification from Konstfack. This year, they celebrate their 20th anniversary, which will include a large exhibition at the main art hall at VIDA. MADELEINE HATZ

VIDA will continue on with Madeleine’s ‘Songs from the underground’ exhibition with the addition of some brand-new works.

Landsvägen, Halltorp, Öland www.vidamuseum.com

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Noteworthy

Left: Torbjørn Rødland, In the Garden, 2016-18, c-print. Courtesy: Torbjørn Rødland and Bonniers Konsthall. Right: Luna Scales, still from Physical Status Report, 2018, video.

Courtesy: Luna Scales and Bonniers Konsthall

Torbjørn Rødland’s ’Fifth Honeymoon’ and Luna Scales’ ’Physical Status Report’ at Bonniers Torbjørn Rødland’s exhibition Fifth Honeymoon is a tightly composed exhibition, unfolding across the rooms of Bonniers Konsthall. With the contractual commitment of wedlock and the emotional trip of the honeymoon as metaphorical frameworks, the works tackle themes of religion, spirituality, eroticism and the spark that forms new human relationships.

Rødland’s incorporation of aesthetic categories such as the lyrical, the romantic and the cute is about taking the sensuality of photography seriously and investigating the seductive qualities of a photographic instant. Thus, Rødland treats the photograph as materiality, as a manipulative medium for conveying emotions, and as a socioculturally determined phenomenon in contemporary culture. He brings a slowness to what appears on the face of it to be quickly-consumed commercial imagery (borrowed from advertising, fashion and film). The pictures resist a quick reading and hold the viewer fast in a visual search which gradually uncovers new layers of both distaste and delight.

Torbjørn Rødland, born 1970 in Stavanger, lives and works in Los Angeles and Oslo. His art has been shown in numerous solo shows at international institutions, such as Serpentine Gallery (2017), and C/O Berlin (2017), to mention a few of the latest ones.

The exhibition shows 13th March to 2nd June.

LUNA SCALES, 2ND MAY-16TH JUNE

In the video Physical Status Report the artist Luna Scales lays naked, striking a pose that recalls the typical art-historical ‘nude model’. Beneath the image a text appears. It comes from a Danish state disability organisation and concerns the artist’s physical condition. Scales was namely born with a muscular disease. The report surveys her appearance and capabilities. ‘The nude’ is a body represented as an object that exists for the spectator’s needs and desires, to be examined and appraised. Scales uses this classical category to pose questions about the body, capacity and disability as a political issue. Scales says: “The text describes my physical ability - or lack thereof. It caters to the Danish authorities and is used when I’m applying for specific additional expenses, or general financial support for people who are born with permanently reduced functional capacity. It became urgent for me to deal with the report, since I’ve been refusing to read it in its full length until 2017, four years after it was written.

Scales was born in Denmark in 1992 and has been studying at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen since 2017. AE Torsgatan 19, Stockholm www.bonnierskonsthall.se

Toto to Gasklockorna in Gävle 18th June On 18th June, the legendary Los Angeles band Toto comes to Sweden for an exclusive outdoor concert in Gävle.

Few bands have played such an important role in pop culture as Toto.

The band has been around since 1977 and has had a large number of international superhits such as Rosanna, Hold the Line, Africa and Pamela.

They have sold over 40 million albums and the megahit Rosanna recently passed 422 million streams on Spotify. Today Toto is comprised of the original band members Steve Lukather (guitar), David Hungate (bass), Steve Porcaro (keyboards) and David Paich (keyboards) as well as Joseph Williams (vocals) and Shannon Forrest (drums).

This spring, they released the collection album 40 Trips Around the Sun which came in top of the charts all over the world. The band is now out on their 40 Trips Around the Sun Tour and in June the world tour reaches Gasklockorna in Gävle. Supporting them is The Night Flight Orchestra. It is the band’s only concert in Sweden this summer and the tickets are on sale now, so buy your ticket soon if you want to guarantee your spot. AE Atlasgatan 3, Gävle www.gasklockornagavle.se MAGAZINE SWEDEN

11

Noteworthy

Picture from Örebro konsthall. Artist: Lilian Bourgeat

The fantastic Art City of Örebro Historical Ghost Walk Join the Stockholm Ghost Walk on its ghostly history tour for an hour and a half stuffed with history and mystery. Explore the dark streets and alleyways that make up the oldest parts of Sweden’s capital, Gamla Stan (Old Town). The tour offers up medieval executions, haunted hotels and shadowy secrets.

For English speakers there is a psychic ghost walk, with mind reading, telepathy, demonstrations of intuition, communication with the spirits and much more. An evening of mysterious, unexplainable experiences.

Those brave enough meet at Tyska kyrkans (The German Church’s) crypt in Gamla Stan. AE Järntorget 84, Stockholm www.stockholmghostwalk.com

Tixis world! ”The lady next door has a cat with very sharp claws. It would have been better if she had a grilled chicken instead.”

Tixi, 5 months 12

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

In the heart of Örebro in the stately Centralpalatset is Örebro Konsthall, which this year celebrates its 40-year anniversary. This former bank with its large windows and wonderful light has grand high ceilings both figuratively and literally, but there are no grand formalities here and everyone feels welcome regardless of their art preferences and age. Örebro is a city that has gone all in and invested in art, which has led to its local population also taking art into their hearts. If you happen to be passing by, a tour of the city is highly recommended to take a look at the public art, where there is 100-year-old works of art standing side by side contemporary pieces. If you arrive at Örebro via the central station, you can find your way to the city centre and konsthall with the help of your mobile phone, be inspired by our thought-provoking digital artwork walks at www.orebrovariations.se.

In March, a new group exhibition opens at Örebro Konsthall, where the topic of wood and trees will be explored from different perspectives and techniques.

In June, it is time for the outdoor exhibition OpenART, which attracts visitors from all over the world to Örebro every other summer. For families there is also OpenART Kids where children and adults can get involved with art and create together.

On 8th June at Örebro Konsthall, the group exhibition ‘Fragments of the Future’ by international artists will be shown. Exactly what this will entail is a secret until the opening day. RED Örebro konsthall, Olaigatan 17B www.orebrokonsthall.se

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Noteworthy

World Accordion Day Every year on 6th May, World Accordion Day is celebrated all over the world, and at Karlssons Musik in Fjärås we are celebrating this day by having an ‘open house’ between 13:00-19:00 where we will hold performances by top-quality accordion artists and serve coffee and snacks.

This year, we have a focus on digital accordions from the Italian Musictech and the factory’s owner will be present in Fjärås together with their main demonstrator Paolo Miles from Italy. Also, one of Sweden’s foremost accordion artists Annika Andersson, from Varberg, will come and perform a mixed repertoire.

The accordion, has in recent years, taken big leaps into both popular music and various other music genres and it is extra exciting to be able to present an experience of the very latest in newly developed digital models, showcasing different sampled sound and orchestral possibilities!

Of course, guests will also have the opportunity to visit our unique accordion museum at Karlssons Musik, and they can also enjoy special offers on both accordion instruments, accessories, books and CDs of various kinds!

Take the opportunity to visit Karlssons Musik on World Accordion Day between 13:00-19:00 on 6th May 2019! CL

James Richards, Phrasing, 2018, three-part digital projection loop. Photo: Frank Kleinbach

Äskebacka, Fjärås www.karlssonsmusik.se

Speed 2 at Malmö Konsthall

Julia Beck, Vid kanalen, Grez, 1883. Oil on canvas 50 x 38 cm.

Photo: Stockholms Auktionsverk. Image cropped.

Grez-sur-Loing – Art and relations

16th February - 18th August

This spring’s main exhibition at Waldemarsudde concerns the latest research about the legendary artist colony Grez-sur-Loing. In the late 19th century, Grez was the setting for various relationships and collaborations between the artists of differing nationalities who dwelled there and the fascinating art works that they created in the village and its beautiful surroundings. More than 100 works by Scandinavian and Anglo-Saxon artists such as Karin and Carl Larsson, Julia Beck, Karl Nordström, Peder Severin Krøyer, Frank O’Meara, William Blair Bruce and Carolina Benedicks are on show in the exhibition. MT

Prins Eugens väg 6, Stockholm www.waldemarsudde.se

SPEED 2 consists of works produced by the artists James Richards and Leslie Thornton as well as an ‘exhibition in the exhibition’ composed by Richards. This includes works by Horst Adelmeit, Tolia Astakhishvili, Adelhyd van Bender, Bruce Conner, Emily Feather, Terence McCormack, Vi Khi Nao, Thomas Zummer and Jens Thornton. The curators for SPEED 2 are Fatima Hellberg, Head of Künstlerhaus Stuttgart and James Richards in collaboration with the exhibition designer Matt Fitts. The exhibition has previously been on show at Künstlerhaus Stuttgart during 2018 and the curator team has adapted the exhibition for the Malmö Konsthall exhibition room.

Several of the works in the group exhibition give the impression of being created against the backdrop of the cold war, an era characterised by fear and self-destruction, which at times, can

appear eerily like our own time. The exhibition contains an atmosphere filled with manic energy, a recurring fascination for x-ray and radioactive matter, of rituals that are able to change consciousness and a systematic archiving and documentation with parallels to scientific research.

SPEED 2 has emerged from an impulse to collaborate where an individual speculative monologue can be transformed into dialogical practice. The exhibition’s two newly produced works - James Richards large-scale video mural Phrasing and Leslie Thornton’s film Cut from Liquid Snake – has emerged from this ‘third consciousness’, two peoples separate mindsets in a common creative process characterised by collaboration and questioning. The exhibition will be held from 16th March to 26th May. AE S:t Johannesgatan 7, Malmö www.konsthall.malmo.se MAGAZINE SWEDEN

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Festival

Sabaton Open Air

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Festival

On 14th August all hell is set to break loose for the twelfth time – with four days of metal at the Sabaton Open Air Festival in Falun.

This year, the program is fully loaded - among others, there will be the forefathers of doom metal Candlemass, who will reunite after 32 years! Magazine Sweden has had a chat with Sabaton’s bass player Pär Sundström and Krister Lindholm, co-founder of Sabaton Open Air.

S

abaton, U.D.O, Apocalyptica, Alestorm, Ensiferum, Candlemass, Riot V, Bloodbound, Elvenking ... we could go on. When it comes to presenting this year’s line-up for the Sabaton Open Air Festival in Falun on 14-17th August, it is an impressive list.

– Starting a festival in Falun felt like a worthy challenge and the fact that there were no similar events in Falun, made it all the more appealing, says Pär Sundström, bassist and manager of Sabaton looking back.

How do you select the bands for the festival? Do you have any special focus or requirements of the bands?

– Primarily, we choose bands that we think are good and that our visitors will enjoy, Pär continues. We are not so focused on what does or doesn’t sell tickets, we want good bands!

Then of course we often choose many bands that have a previous connection to Sabaton in one way or another.

– Also, every year we try to find some new bands, that may never have been in Sweden before, bands we know many want to see, Krister Lindholm, co-founder of Sabaton Open Air, continues. Even bands that might stand out a little in terms of genre from most of the other bands that we have the pleasure of booking.

What has been the best festival so far?

– I want to say that all the festivals we have done are the best, says Krister Lindholm. All of them have had something that you remember as being a little special and because we have grown a little every year, getting bigger and better, you remember of course the latest festival more clearly and think maybe it is best.

– We think, we get better and better every year, says Pär Sundström.

What do you think will be the highlight of this year’s festival?

– Seeing all the small minor tweaks that we are currently planning come to fruition and seeing how they work in practice, says Krister.

We’re not making any major adjustments at all, but every year we do some refining here and there to give the visitors a slightly better experience each year. Also, it will be amazing when the legend Udo Dirkschneider visits our children’s area and meet the kids in there. And of course, even see him play with his band U.D.O.!

– Then we look forward to Apocalyptica, Pär chips in. There is something special and unique with them.

– Yes, of course Apocalyptica with their fantastic Metallica show! says Krister.

Do you have any new exciting bands at the festival?

– Absolutely, confirms Krister. Several bands are new to both us and to Swedish audiences. If

there’s one thing I want to mention, then it will be Frozen Crown from Italy, which has perhaps the youngest and best guitarist I have heard in years.

Or why not Portuguese Attack Demons or American War of Thrones? All wicked bands, that have not yet really broken through.

– Northtale makes its debut in Falun, Pär adds.

– Exactly, Krister continues. They were formed at our festival in 2017, so you could say that this will be a little extra special!

The death of the festival has been discussed in recent years - is it something that has affected you?

– No, says Pär seriously. Many others who do not really know what they are doing or those who think it is easy to make money from festivals are easy to fall victim. We have a clear profile and take good care of our guests.

Krister continues: – That’s just a something created by the media to sell newspapers... Something that doesn’t really mean anything other than to those who have no control over their finances and target audience, product and services, those who risk having expenses that far exceed their revenues and thus have to wind up their business and then go bankrupt.

– But what has affected us a little, is when other festivals have been forced to shut down leaving thousands of ticket holders out of pocket and not getting the money they invested in pre-purchased tickets refunded. Clearly it affects us and everyone else! With credibility if nothing else.

Is it difficult to focus when you are both a band and the organiser?

– Yes, of course, says Pär. We have no chance of seeing some bands, even though they really want to do so.

– We hold the festival in the spirit of the band, Krister explains. Nothing that we do with the festival is done without us thinking it through and asking if ‘Uncle Sabaton’ would do the same. Everything must come together, both for the band and the festival.

CONTINUES ON THE NEXT PAGE

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

15

Festival

How do the plans look for your hard rock cruise at the end of the year?

– It looks very good, says Krister. But unfortunately, it is a little bit too early to reveal anything more than to say it will be a very worthy 10-year anniversary on the Baltic Sea! – We have been going strong for 9 years now, so we are planning something different, says Pär secretively.

Okay, then it’s time for a really tricky question: What is the world’s all-time best guitar riff ? Smoke on the Water?

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Highway to Hell? Aint Talking ‘Bout Love? Enter Sandman? Or maybe Poison’s Unskinny Bop? Something even cooler?

– Haha, help! laughs Krister. No matter what I answer, somebody will put me right!

There are lots of iconic riffs, and you have mentioned some of them. I’m personally a big fan of Rainbow and would probably say that they are behind many of my favourite riffs, or why not the industry giants Rammstein, nothing can get the crowd going as much when

they start up their rock-hard riffs. But I state here and now that Iron Maiden’s classic The Trooper is the song that most makes the hairs on arms and legs stand on end every time I hear it!

– Simple, says Pär. Judas Priest, Electric eye.

– Ah ... Of course! groans Krister. But like I said: Many a great riff out there ...

Text: Tony Manieri Photo: Pressphoto

2

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Festival

Pride red Peter & Erik are preparing for the twenty-first Stockholm Pride and disco party at The Brewery (Münchenbryggeriet). Photo: Rickard Unge

Disco Party at Stockholm Pride Stockholm Pride is the Nordic region’s largest Pride festival and since 1998 has been working to highlight LGBTQ issues and create a free zone for homosexuals, bisexuals, transgender and queers and the expressions of gender that exist within the LGBTQ movement. In 2019, Stockholm Pride will be held between 29th July and 3rd August, and one of its big successes is the final party where the fun-time duo Peter and Erik will arrange a disco party to beat all disco parties.

P

eter & Erik have worked with Stockholm Pride for many years, in part as organisers of the stage shows but also with running the bar in the park. This year, they are also making stand-alone projects and are counting on holding a genuine disco party. For everyone.

What is the coolest thing happening during Pride?

– Definitely our final disco party at The Brewery, says Erik. We are in the process of booking the last acts, and already it looks like it will be a very cool party.

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Don’t you think that one of Pride’s main attractions, Village People, should make a sneaky appearance at your party?

– Village People are booked this year by the stage manager for Pride and Pride Park, Gunn Lundemo, so we’ll have to see, says Peter with a glint of secrecy. It would definitely be amazing.

- We had Boney M at our party last year, and it was a great success, Erik continues. We’ll have to see what we can book this year, that will top that.

You’re doing a disco party. Is disco still a thing?

– Absolutely! says Peter. Disco has been given a huge boost in recent years and is just as big as ever.

- There is disco influenced house music that is newly produced, but the old seventies disco scene

has always been kept alive within the gay community, and now it is bigger than ever, Erik continues.

It is a fantastic treasure chest of songs to delve into, which makes our job great fun!

Who are your dream artists for the party?

- Gloria Gaynor would be awesome. Also, we would love to have the Pointer Sisters on stage, says Peter. Hot Chocolate are also welcome. And KC & The Sunshine Band!

- There is so much wonderful disco, so we’ll see what we manage to get together. In any case, it will be a wonderful party, concludes Peter & Erik popping with laughter.

Text: Tony Manieri

Guest of Honour

Benny Golson Artistic Director

Jan Lundgren Jazz Artist

Ardy Strüwer Jazz Ambassadors

Anne Swärd Fredrik Lindström Marie & Gustav Mandemann

Benny Golson & Norrbotten Big Band Charles Lloyd Omar Sosa & NDR Bigband Ed Motta Cristina Branco Joey DeFrancesco Julian Lage Eric Harland Marvin Sewell Reuben Rogers Joyce Moreno Nils Landgren Michel Wollny Wolfgang Haffner Lars Danielsson Leszek Możdżer Zohar Fresco Nguyen Manh Paolo Fresu Richard Galliano Jan Lundgren Funk Off Jakob Bro Palle Mikkelborg Jorge Rossy Cæcilie Norby Nicole Johänntgen Lisa Wulff Anke Heifrich Hildegunn Øiseth Dorota Piotrowska Mads Mathias Sinne Eeg Jacob Fischer Filip Jers Bjarke Falgren Hans Backenroth Kristian Leth Tord Gustavsen Trio Magnanimus Trio Maciej Obara Quartet Rigmor Gustafsson Peter Asplund & XL Big Band Jan Lundgen & GWO Hannah Svensson Group Lars Jansson Trio Mimi Terris Ronnie Gardiner Septet Hayati Kafe & Roger Berg Big Band Beatrice Järås & NBB Zier Romme Sven Erik Lundeqvist Oddjob Jojje Wadenius Amanda Andréas Isabella Lundgren Amanda Ginsburg Soundscape Orchestra Paul Strandberg Kvartett David Fors Norberg Trio Jazzoo and more Tickets ystadjazz.se Ystad Visitor Center +46 411 57 76 81

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Music

It’s surely plain to see that this is a Fender Stratocaster getting the life played out of it. Photo: Adobe Stock

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Music 3 of the world’s most expensive guitars REACH OUT TO ASIA STRATOCASTER: 25.000.000:-

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Axes!

For the uninitiated, it can seem like all electric guitars are the same. Sure, some are red, others black. Some are strangely shaped, reaching out in all directions, but basically, they are the same, right? Nothing could be further from the truth . . .

F

or musicians, the electric guitar -or axe, to the initiated- is a science.

There are a plethora of different manufacturers and models. In addition to this, each model is usually available with a variety of options when it comes to neck shape and style, microphones and how the microphones are connected to each other and how thick or thin the guitar’s body is.

And that’s just a few things to be considered.

The most important thing though is of course the sound you’re after, so to say that electric guitars are all basically the same is like claiming that a Skoda and Ferrari are the same because both are obviously cars.

THE OLDER THE BETTER

As with cars, the price of a guitar increases when it reaches a certain age. Getting your mitts on a 1967 Fender Stratocaster or a Gibson Les Paul from 1958 is just a dream for the vast majority who give it their all in the rehearsal studio. But in the same way that a car-loving mechanic knows everything there is to know about how the Koenigsegg’s models

Agera and Regera differ from each other, so all guitarists worth their salt, know what the world of difference there is between a Rickenbacker 325 and a 350.

RECORDBREAKING PRICES

In recent decades, the prices of really old guitars (that is, from the 1950s and 1960s) have been constantly on the up. Just like an old, drafty and not very road-worthy Ferrari 250 GTO from 1963 costs over a hundred times more than a brand new LaFerrari.

For comparison to the auction prices quoted here, a new Fender or Gibson costs approximately 10,000 Kronor. But the real rarities are of course now regarded as collectors’ items and will probably never again get a decent trashing by a rock guitarist in some small dingy club even though that was the reason why they were made in the first place.

In exactly the same way, a Ferrari 250 GTO from 1963 will never again roar along the snaking serpentine roads outside of Portofino with some stylish youngster behind the wheel.

That’s a little sad, actually.

Text: Tony Manieri

To raise money for tsunami victims in 2004, this signed Fender was sold at auction. And it wasn’t just anyone who signed it: Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood, Brian May, David Gilmour, Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Mark Knopfler, Pete Townshend, Tony Iommi, Angus Young, Malcolm Young, Sting, Ritchie Blackmore, members of Def Leppard, Bryan Adams, Liam Gallagher and Paul McCartney all put their mark on the axe, which secured a record price.

JIMI HENDRIX 1968 FENDER STRATOCASTER: 18.600.000:-

This iconic guitar was played by Jimi Hendrix at the Woodstock Festival. It was purchased by Microsoft founder Paul Allen and is now on show at The Experience Music Project in Hendrix’s hometown of Seattle.

Note that the guitar is actually built for the right-handed. Hendrix simply turned the guitar over and played upside-down, with the thinnest string at the top.

1964 GIBSON SG, GEORGE HARRISON AND JOHN LENNON: 5.300.000:-

Maybe small potatoes compared with the two guitars above, but a classic. It was used by both George Harrison and John Lennon between 1966 and 1969, on the albums Revolver and The White Album.

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

21

Festival

Västervik creates summer memories for life Some summers stay in our memories for a lifetime. The unusually hot summer of 2018 was probably one of them for many of us. At the same time, it is individual experiences that memories are best made of. In Västervik we promise an experience that will stay with you for life.

T

just Archipelago just outside Västervik is a favourite for boat tourists from Sweden and Northern Europe. With six guest harbours and numerous natural bays, you will find both lively boat-life communities and peaceful and tranquil spots to drop anchor, as well as restaurants, cafés, hostels and activities.

Trips out to the archipelago run daily from several places in the city. Hasselö is the family friendly island, Idö is the outdoorsy island and Rågö is best for cultural heritage. There is also a service that runs between Västervik, Gränsö Slott and Västervik Resort which makes it easy to travel by boat within the city.

The city of Västervik was founded in 1433.

In the city centre’s heart, with its cobbled streets and picturesque neighbourhoods, restaurants sit close to each other and there are many shopping possibilities. A new Västervik has also emerged.

Most obvious of which, is that Västervik’s very own Björn Ulvaeus has built a new meeting place, Slottsholmen, with beach promenades, city bathing, a guest harbour, restaurant, hotel and perhaps Sweden’s most classic outdoor concert venue Stegeholms Castle Ruin.

STEGEHOLMS CASTLE RUIN Visfestivalen at Stegeholm, has for the past

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

VÄSTERVIK RESORT A Swedish classic that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to the Västervik archipelago.

With an adventure swimming pool, golf course, restaurants, children’s club, adventure evenings, paddle ball courts, children’s playground, shows and many activities for the whole family. Feel like you are on your own private archipelago – there are ten islands that are connected by bridges directly to the resort. A resort for all generations.

Västervik’s very own Björn Ulvaeus is behind the development of Slottsholmen, at the heart of Västervik.

54 years been creating music memories for many different generations. The festival has paved the way for a wealth of other events and Västervik has become one of the most popular event hosting cities along the east coast ,with events such as Hojrock, Löga Beach Party, Sverige Dansar, to name just a few.

The outdoor possibilities in Västervik are huge, with kayak lovers, climbers from all over the world, and fishermen from North Europe coming every year.

But a trip to Västervik is not complete until you have taken a road trip out into the typical Småland countryside. Winding, undulating country roads with a picnic stop along the way, a moped museum or why not kiss a moose in a moose park? Regardless, memories for life!

A TOUR ON THE NARROW-GAUGE RAILWAY Experiencing an old-fashioned steam locomotive is truly something – not just for the kids. In the summertime, there are several departures each day from Västervik on the old museum railway line, a narrow-gauge railway between Västervik and Hultsfred. Sit back and enjoy the Småland countryside accompanied by the soothing sounds of the steam engine.

ASTRID LINDGREN’S WORLD Meet Pippi, Emil and the others at Astrid Lindgren’s World in Vimmerby, just a 45-minute drive from Västervik.

Text: The editorial staff Photo: Västervik Framåt

Festival

Västervik Resort has something for everyone - especially for families with children!

Summer tips in Västervik!

JUNE Västervik Outdoor Festival, 8th June A mecca for those who love adventure. A day showcasing Västervik’s range of outdoor and adventure activities on Fiskaretorget.

Sverige Dansar, 27-30th June Enjoy workshops in jitterbug and salsa for all levels and improve your dance skills or just try something new.

JULY

Diggiloo, 25th July For the fifth time, the summer’s great family show Diggiloo is back in Västervik! As usual you can count on an entire evening loaded with new hits and old classics, humour and lots of laughter.

On stage there will be Arvingarna, David Lindgren, Magnus Carlsson, Thomas Pettersson, John Lundvik, Mimi Werner, Jessica Andersson and Mariette. Of course, all accompanied by a large band, dancers and a choir.

AUGUST

Karhu Run, 8th July

Västervik Triathlon, 10th August

Karhu Run is a city race that’s more like a party.

The sex kilometre race runs between Fiskaretorget and Slottsholmen and Kulbacken. A fun race for both runners and the spectators, often with familiar faces at the starting-line.

Västervik’s very own triathlon is divided into two distances - Olympic and sprint. The spectator-friendly course starts from the Fiskaretorget in the centre of Västervik.

VisFestivalen in Västervik 11-13th July

A tribute to stylish and fast sports cars, new and old. Classic and brand-new cars are exhibited together with remodelled racing cars at Gränsö Slott’s park area.

A full day for confirmed car nerds and families who want a fun and colourful day out. And don’t miss the unique city race on Saturday!

Visfestivalen has been going since 1966. Three days with some of Sweden’s best music artists in the beautiful and atmospheric castle ruin, a must for anyone who likes music. The walking path between the ruins and the outdoor cafés at Fiskaretorget will be filled with food stalls, shops and fun activities.

Put a note on the calendar for week 28 and count on the year’s best party!

Sports car day, 17-18th August

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

23

Music

The Norwegian Chamber Orchestra. Photo: Terje Tønnesen

Point Music Festival

Santtu-Matias Rouvali. Foto: Kaapo Kamu

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Music

Anna Thorvaldsdóttir. Foto: Saga Sigurdardóttir

Patricia Kopatchinskaja. Foto: Julia Wesely

Point Music Festival has a theme that deals with human stories and voices that need to be heard.

The Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra stands at the center of this new, international festival which, during four intense days between 23-26th May 2019, will host four world premieres, three orchestras, two DJ club nights, a film show and a total of ten concerts ... A veritable cauldron where various art forms and music genres come together to engage, challenge and enrich all its festivalgoers.

O

ne of the festival’s biggest events is a Canadian multimedia performance Life Reflected, where the National Arts Centre Orchestra give a powerful and at times painful performance based on four Canadian women’s engaging life stories.

Through music, song, dance, spoken word, photography and graphics we get to know Alice Munro, Amanda Todd, Roberta Bondar and Rita Joe in a totally symphonic, multimedia experience. Their stories inspired the director and creative producer Donna Feore and the orchestra’s artistic leader Alexander Shelley to create Life Reflected: - The stories of these four women are some of the most poignant, personal and also universal stories I have heard.

MORE HIGHLIGHTS

Two concerts by the festival artist and world-famous Patricia Kopatchinskaja and the

Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra, a world premiere of the Icelandic composer Anna Thorvaldsdóttir, three exciting concerts with the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra, a world premiere of Karin Rehnqvist’s Bloodhov (Blood Hoof) with Lena Willemark as soloist, are just some of the exciting highlights.

Club nights with the DJ and producer Gabriel Prokofiev, grandson of composer Sergei Prokofiev is another.

For the Symphony’s CEO and artistic director Sten Cranner, it is a pleasure to start this genre-crossing festival that has breadth, depth and high artistic reaches: - We want to gather together selected state-of-the-art projects, and create new ones, with common underlying themes: important life stories, human stories and voices that need to be heard. I am really pleased with what we have achieved. I think we have created something that in one way or another will truly affect the lives of the festival’s visitors.

Point Music Festival is being held at the Gothenburg Concert Hall.

SYMPHONY FACTS

The Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra, Sweden’s National Orchestra, was founded in 1905 and today consists of 109 musicians.

Since the 2017-2018 season, Santtu-Matias Rouvali has been the head conductor of the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra. Under conductor Neeme Järvis’s direction between 1982-2004, the orchestra fully established itself among Europe’s foremost orchestras after international tours and over 100 recordings.

This achievement took another leap forward with Gustavo Dudamel, head conductor from 2007-2012, one of modern times’ most respected conductors. Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra is part of the Västra Götaland Regional Council.

Text: The editorial staff MAGAZINE SWEDEN

25

Festival SLEEPING BAG WITH 800 PRODOWN FOR CHILLY NIGHTS

For longer festivals or situations that require really good equipment, rely on The North Face sleeping bag Inferno. Perfect for when it rains non-stop and the football pitch you are sleeping on is not Champions League standard.

Inferno is a little roomier for increased freedom of movement, so you won’t feel squeezed in. It is filled with water resistant down which has an 800 Prodown insulation. It is good, because you never know when the tent could spring a leak.

Or when your mates come staggering by with beers in hand. www.thenorthface.se

A POCKET TORCH THAT CHARGES YOUR MOBILE

PowerLight has many applications.

Naturally it is a lamp that can be used to light your tent or campsite.

It also works nicely attached to the headband while you dig deep into the freeze-dried rations or eventually succeed in getting a turn in the Portaloo after a four-hour dawn wait.

Also, more usefully, it can charge a smartphone up to 3 times, so you can check to see if there is a real toilet close by.

Or call your mum. www.bioliteenergy.com

VERSATILE SPORK SET

Use this spoon and fork combo as they are or connect them together for a longer tool with which you can easily stir the pan or rummage about in your bag of freeze-dried grub. Or even scrape off the worst of the plaque from your teeth.

It has a stylish hole so you can thread them together in order to keep track of them or to hang it up to dry. Should you find yourself doing the dishes, unlikely. www.ucogear.com

The Festivalgoer’s Festival this summer? Are you all set with everything you’re going to need?

If not, MagazineSweden has got it covered with a useful list of the most essential items you should take with you. And then some ...

Text: Tony Manieri

se me!

I’m your ticket, don’t loo

DON’T FORGET YOUR TICKET!

The security guards have heard all the stories and excuses, and it’s harder these days when everything is on the web. Just so you know, these do not work: ‘I’m gutted! The dog ate my ticket!’

‘Oh dear. Mobile and computer too?’

‘By mistake I put the ticket in the oven when I was baking a cake for grandma’s 100th birthday!

‘Awww. Mobile and computer too?’

‘My girlfriend was accepted into NASA’s Mars program and the ticket got stuck in her space suit.’

‘Far out man! Mobile and computer too?’ www.lollastockholm.com

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Festival

YOU SHOULD EAT OR YOU WILL DIE!

Food is perhaps not the first thing you think of when packing, but experienced festivalgoers can testify to many a hallucinatory experience when everything that is ingested is liquid.

Therefore, it is very important to bring some sustenance. Even if it’s only one meal for the whole weekend.

NRG-5 is wheat-based and rich in nutrition, vitamins and minerals. The pack contains 9 long-life cakes that can be eaten as they are or broken up and mixed with liquid for a porridge-like, energy-rich ‘dinner’.

An extremely long shelf life - 20 years - means that even your children can have their fill when they go to a festival in 2039. www.overlevnadsbutiken.se

A TENT THAT ACCOMMODATES THE WHOLE BAND

Very spacious and stable with fully expandable options!

The Hilleberg Atlas tent can be used in its base form Basic, without the internal tent or floor, or it can be adapted in a variety of ways. Inner Tent 6 and Inner Tent 8, have plenty of floor space for up to six and eight persons, and have a built-in floor. In other words, the entire band can fit in, including the sound engineer and manager. Additional tents can be connected together with special accessories via each door opening meaning that with several Atlas tents fixed together, the drummer can sleep with his whole drum kit if he insists. www.hilleberg.se

Survival Kit

CONTINUES ON THE NEXT PAGE

FIRST AID KIT DELUXE

This practical box contains everything you need for that festival emergency. Whether you get stung, cut yourself, twist an ankle or pull a muscle, get sunburnt or just happen get involved in something that you didn’t really mean to, there is a remedy in here.

Also contains emergency flares and smoke bombs in case you really do go astray out in the bush. NOTE! Make sure that no hard-rock band gets a hold of these, because they love to send up pyrotechnics from the stage and then maybe you’ll really will get lost and have to call your mum. www.surviveoutdoorslonger.com

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

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Festival

PORTABLE EMERGENCY SHOWER

The heady scent of camaraderie belongs to all festivals, of course, all festival-pros know that. But if contrary to this expectation, you still want to smell fresh, then this is a nifty device. Pocket Shower is super easy to use; you just fill it up with 10 litres of water and hang it between the neighbouring tents with the two durable Delrin D rings and the 6-metre-long lightweight cord supplied. The black material absorbs the sun’s heat during the day, set it up in the morning at base camp to get a warm shower in the evening, or fill it up at the end of the day to get a refreshing cold rinse after all those hours in the mosh pit in front of the main stage. www.seatosummit.com

ELECTRICALLY HEATED SOLES

Much appreciated and long-lasting warmth when the frost starts to nip your toes when you’ve fallen asleep with your legs sticking outside the tent. If there are a few of you sleeping in the tent, it is no doubt much appreciated that you keep your feet outside.

If you turn up the heat fully, you’ll get white smoke billowing out of your shoes – a fun party trick. Just think through a good solution for how to attach the battery pack needed to drive the heating element, so that it does not dampen your smoke screen stage diving performance act. www.sidas.com

Three bonus items worth considering THE MOST IMPORTANT APP FOR YOUR MOBILE PHONE

FRENCH ARMY KNIFE

Of course, you have seen the knife on the left a thousand times. The one on the right however, is called the French Army knife and can be very useful during the festival’s chilly evenings. And mornings. And days and nights. www.istherereallynoonethathasacorkscrew.se

FOR OPTIMAL VIEWS

If you hate all that tent congestion, here is Portaledge. It is a nice little tent that you simply nail up high on the overlooking rock face. You are guaranteed to sit in peace, oversee everything that’s happening on the stage and totally get out of buying anyone a drink. www.Iamsittinghere153metresuphavinggreatfun.se

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Together with having your mum’s phone number top of your contact list, Swish is the most important thing you can have in your mobile phone. You never know when a pizzeria can just pop up in the middle of nowhere.

NOTE: Check carefully before leaving home that mum, dad, grandma, grandpa, neighbours and your big sister all have your number programmed. www.acalzoneonlycostsseventyfivekronoractually.se

Historical Ghost Tour in Stockholm.

We take you on a walk steeped in history and mystery.

We bring to life stories of legends, diseases, murders and ghosts

Book at:

www.stockholmghostwalk.com

Psychic - a 60 minute interactive show in which the audience, along with the host, will explore the extraordinary capabilities of the human mind in the most entertaining and undforgettable way. A uniqe blend of ancient secrets and modern psychology are brought to life.

Festival

The Festival

Urkult

celebrates 25 years Urkult is a festival that is literally in the middle of the forest. More specifically, a few kilometres outside Näsåker, on the shores of Nämforsen, in deepest Ångermanland. Not so easily accessible, perhaps – but incredibly popular nonetheless.

Now it’s time to get ready for this summer’s 25th anniversary.

M

ärta Kero started as a volunteer in 2007, as one of several hundred unpaid enthusiasts who make Urkult possible.

Today, she coordinates the marketing for the festival and looks forward to the 25th anniversary with great enthusiasm.

Environmental awareness seems to be high on Urkult’s agenda, taking responsibility for the environment and preferably leaving only footprints behind after the festival.

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

- Organising such a big festival like we do, of course, goes hand in hand with responsibility for environment and we fully respect that, but primarily Urkult is about socialising with people, having fun together and enjoying all the wonderful experiences that nature has to offer, says Märta Kero.

The festival is really held out in the middle of the forest. Isn’t it tricky for visitors to get there?

- Yes, it’s not always easy, laughs Märta.

Näsåker is located in the middle of Ångermanland›s wilderness, about midway between Örnsköldsvik and Östersund, so it is definitely not easy to get here. But so far it seems that

many people are willing to take the time and come to Urkult.

It sounds really amazing! How did the idea of the festival come about?

- It was a group of culturally interested enthusiasts who had settled around Sollefteå and the surrounding area. They were a part of the ‘green wave’ that had left the big city to come and live closer to nature. One of them worked as an agent booking artists, focusing on so-called world music, and together they created Urkult in 1995.

- One thing that was important from the very beginning, was that it should not be just a single festival, held once a year, but many

Festival activities scattered throughout the year.

- It is, of course, equally important that there are cultural experiences for people that live in the countryside as there are for those that live in the city, and this premise has resulted in Urkult doing smaller cultural events around the county, about once a month.

It must have been a rather uncertain venture to begin with. How have you managed to keep the festival alive for so long?

- It was a huge amount of work to bring Urkult to life in the early years, and it barely made it in the initial stages. We had to hold support concerts to raise enough money to cover all the expenses, and then we have always depended upon a group of wonderful volunteers who work without pay during the festival.

Without them, it would probably not have been possible to implement Urkult! For the past few years, however, it has been going very well for the festival, which is obviously very nice for all of us working with it.

For many festivals around the country, they rely on big name artists who attract large audiences. But you almost look at it the other way around?

lished big name stars. Our aim is to invite more unknown artists from different parts of the world. It has proved to work extremely well for us, and many of our visitors get to take home new favourites that they may not even have heard of before they came to the festival.

- We have always focused on folk music and music from around the world, rather than popular music.

Perhaps you could say that you attract people because of the overall festival experience?

- We absolutely do! Many who come to the festival do not have the artist’s performances as a primary focus, but come for the atmosphere that exists at Urkult. The music is of course a big part, but so much more is going on. Not least for children and young people, which means that we have always had a great deal of families with young children amongst our visitors. We always have various workshops, dancing, children’s theatre and other fun activ-

ities. There is certainly something for everyone at Urkult.

- Many people come back year on year and that is of course, a very good sign that we are doing things right. Urkult has become a bit of a meeting place, where you can make new friends or reconnect with familiar old faces.

What would you particularly like to highlight, apart from the music and the activities?

- In the first place, this is a very beautiful place, right next to the Ångerman river; with rolling hills, a wonderful pine forest and the majestic rapids and water all at our disposal.

Also, our visitors are not forced to camp on a dirty football field, there are small pleasant campsites scattered throughout the forest around the site.

- A visit to Urkult is a bit like getting away from all the hustle and bustle and purely enjoy a great festival atmosphere in an amazing natural environment. Something that makes many of us feel very good health wise! concludes Märta Kero.

Text: Tony Manieri Photo: Sofi Hellberg & Daniel Troger

- Yes, you could say that actually, says Märta Kero. It has never been our focus to book estab-

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

31

Festival

Visfestival 3 days long Visfestival Holmön (literally Song Festival) makes for the perfect summer memory, it’s just a magical environment! Bring along both the kids and your grandma. Or gather together all your mates for a different kind of summer party – to enjoy both well-known artists and up-and-coming stars. But it’s not just the music that attracts visitors to this sunny isle. It is the whole shebang - getting the picnic basket packed, feeling the air of expectation on the ferry, the feeling of excitement as you arrive in Bullerbyn and head towards the festival area. Sun, sun, sun and a good old singalong awaits!

Amanda Ginsburg - Sweden’s next Monica Z? Photo: Sima Korenivski

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Jack Vreeswijk is playing on Saturday. Photo: Kalle Prorok

Festival

on Sweden’s sunniest island

A

ll outdoor festivals worry a little bit about the weather. But Visfestival Holmön rarely has to worry - for Holmön is actually Sweden’s sunniest island!

Anyway, there are plenty of covered and tented areas to duck into, if there does happen to be a few drops of rain, so you can keep warm and dry.

THREE DAYS - THREE THEMES This year, Visfestival celebrates 25 years and so of course it will be a proper celebration. Visfestival Holmön commences on Thursday 25th July with a jazz evening. Friday sees local female artists in focus, and on Saturday during the day there will be Allsång på Holmön with famous artists and in the evening, among other things, there will be a performance from a hugely successful artist, the likes of which is being kept a secret, at the moment. On Sunday morning, as usual, a prayer service will be held with plenty of songs and singing, in collaboration with Sävar/Holmön’s parish.

Thursday, 25th July 19.00–21.00: Vis-Jazzevening. Don’t miss this jewel of an evening at this year’s festival! Enjoy Sweden’s jazz and blues king Claes Janson, who also won our hearts as the robber in Ronja Rövardotter. Not to mention the highly acclaimed Swedish Grammy award winner Amanda Ginsburg, a superhot jazz musician who could become the next Monica Z. And whatever you do, do not miss the Finnish B.S.T.O. Band,

with their jazz and blues influenced tunes, sung in the coolest Finland’s Swedish.

Friday, 26th July 19.00-23.00: Local female talent. Visfestival Holmön has for a long time been conscious about having an even representation of both female and male artists. This year though, the whole of Friday evening is devoted to five women from our part of the world. Come and listen to Maria Andersson, who has played for many years in the world-famous rock band from Robertsfors, Sahara Hotnights, but since 2015, has been a solo artist. Also, don’t miss Magda Andersson from Umeå whose lyrics focus on things that are difficult talk about. Also, Halm - a country/American band from Sävar.

Saturday 27th July 14.00-17.00: Allsång på Holmön is a sing-along show in the same vein as the famous TV show Allsång på Skansen. It is scientifically proven that a good old sing-along makes you happier and more energetic. We’ll help you to get a little energy boost with choir leader Elin Örebrant, who gets the entire audience singing loud and proud. Just like at Skansen, there will also be some well-known names, including Maria Möller and Jack Vreeswijk.

Saturday, 27th July 19.00-23.00: The Grand Finale. The festival ends with a ‘traditional’ festival performance - with five artists who will do everything they can to send you home with sunshine and song in both hearts and minds. You are guaranteed to leave with several new favourites for your playlist.

Text: Birgitta Jacobson

About Holmön HOLMÖN ITSELF IS WORTH AN EXTRA DAY - OR TWO

If you arrive with time to spare, Holmön is well worth exploring, (4.5 out of 5 on Trip– Advisor). Check out the boat museum or take a swim in the warm waters. Eat something nice at the Novas Inn restaurant or shop at village-run shop.

If you’re staying a little longer, you should definitely hike or cycle around the island and book a trip to Stora Fjäderägg.

Everything you need to know about Holmön can be found at holmon.com VISRESAN – THE SIMPLEST IS BEST

Those who are smart, naturally, book the Visresan – an all-in-one ticket that covers bus travel from Operaplan in central Umeå, priority ferry trips both ways, and the festival ticket of course.

Our biggest fans book Visresan and a hotel in Umeå for all the days, because during the festival it usually gets fully booked on the island. This way they can stay at a good hotel in Umeå and take the Visresan each day to the festival.

Also, there is a special price for a shared Visfestival taxi, but this does not include the priority ferry service.

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

33

BREMEN AN EXPERIENCE

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Welcome aboard!

Art

Sip My Ocean, 1998, installation view, Fundació Joan Miró, Barcelona, 2010. Photo: Per Pratdesaba.

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

I’m Not The Girl Who Misses Much, 1994. Single channel video (still).

Art

Mercy Garden, 2014. Audio-video.

Pixel Forest, 2016. Audio-video installation.

Pipilotti Rist Iridescent, sensuous, spectacular. Pipilotti Rist embraces, challenges and enchants us with her visually fanciful universe, where themes such as body and technology, gender and nature merge together.

O

pen My Glade at Louisiana invites us to experience the first big presentation of Pipilotti Rist’s work in Denmark.

The Swiss artist (b.

1962), whose name is a nod to Astrid Lindgren’s rebellious and free-thinking Pippi Longstocking, is internationally recognised as one of contemporary art’s most significant explorers of the senses in moving pictures. Since the middle of the 1980s, she has been working to explore and blow wide open - the broad and constantly evolving medium of video technology.

HIGH-TECH AND SENSUAL

With Pipilotti Rist, video also becomes painting and space, and her work therefore is simultaneously high-tech and sensual, iridescent and critical, weightless and grounded. The camera becomes the brush, eyes and emotions.

The exhibition title is taken from one of Rist’s iconic works, ‘Open My Glade’ (Flatten), 2000 - a poetic pun, which so often the case with Rist’s titles, with both a symbolic and Dadaistic tone. Characteristic of Rist, she

works are also represented, both as independent works and as important elements of Rist’s immersive installation expression.

TWO NEW WORKS

Pipilotti Rist, Open My Glade (Flatten), 2000. Single channel video installation (still, detail).

opens rooms in rooms and circles around our intimate space. She opens up glades in front of far reaching views.

The exhibition has been put together in close collaboration with the artist herself, the installation is found in the museum’s south wing, and also continues out into the park.

Where we get an insight into the whole of Rist’s works, from early pieces in TV format to sculptures and spatial video & audio installations with projections on the ceiling, walls and floors. Additionally, wallpaper and textile

Two new works have emerged during the work on the exhibition. Rist has created a textile work which like an inversed eyelid - the works title - covers the walls as soft, colourful membranes in ‘the apartment’ in the large room at the top of the south wing. The 54-meter-long work is created in collaboration with the Danish textile company Kvadrat.

In addition to this, Rist has created a socalled ‘modification’ piece, in the form of a video projection on a ceramic dish by Asger Jorn from Louisiana’s own collections. Jorn himself was the master of the modification and painted new motifs on top of paintings purchased at flea markets.

The exhibition has been made possible with support from the C.L. David’s Foundation and Collection and further supported by Kvadrat and Pro Helvetia. ‘Open My Glade’ is on at Louisiana between 1st March – 23rd June.

Text: Tony Manieri. All photos: Courtesy: Pipilotti Rist / Hauser & Wirth & Luhring Augustine MAGAZINE SWEDEN

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Photo: Yanan Li

Art Agenda

Yanan Li at Waldemarsudde Yanan Li’s photographs portray the nature, park and the garden at Waldemarsudde. A number of the exhibited images record the same subject during different times of the year, including Antoine Bourdelle’s eye-catching sculpture ‘Herakles’ with the castle’s facade in the background.

The selection of image content, the visual expression and the different compositional arrangements of the photographs are influenced both by western picture traditions and from Chinese art. This combination contributes to the interesting expression of the photographs and comes from the fact that Yanan Li originates in China, but lives and works in Sweden.

The photographs shown in the Bernadotte Room will be included in the comprehensive and magnificent book about all the artwork at Prince Eugen’s Waldemarsudde, which will be published in collaboration with Arvinius + Orfeus Publishing in May 2019. The book contains new articles about Waldemarsudde written by the museum director Karin Sidén and archivist Anna Meister, as well as a large number of beautiful photographs by Yanan Li. When the book is published, a selection of new photographs by Yanan Li will be shown in the Bernadotte Room from May to 6th October 2019.

Prins Eugens Väg 6, Stockholm www.waldemarsudde.se

Falkenbergs Museum

Gilbert & George at Moderna At ‘The Great Exhibition’ at Moderna Museet in Stockholm, we will be able to meet a unique artistic vision with Gilbert & George’s own selection of pictures until 12th May. The artists have worked for five decades and created works that have challenged the conventions of both the art world and society, without regard as to what is considered good taste.

Gilbert & George are the world’s most iconic duo, always dressed in immaculately pressed suits as they frequent the same London venues as they did back in the 1960s. Irrepressible

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and direct, they have the ability to shock the observer of their art. The art focusses on punks and hipsters, folk dance and bombs, autumn leaves and personal ads - Gilbert & George explore the world around us and advocate art for everyone.

The exhibition will be on from 9th February – 12th May. Moderna Museet, Skeppsholmen, Stockholm www.modernamuseet.se

Next to the river Ätran in Falkenberg is RIAN design museum, housed in a beautiful old brick building. It offers exhibitions on design, handicrafts and architecture. During the spring, up until 5th May, it is showing the exhibition ‘Att forma det moderna: Bauhaus 100 år’ (To shape the modern: Bauhaus 100 years), which highlights the designers and artists associated with the Bauhaus school in Germany between 1919 and 1933. Bauhaus was an art school that wanted to unite the different art forms and create a new alliance between art and industry.

In the school’s workshops some of the first manufactured steel pipe furniture was produced in the mid-1920s.

The exhibition consists of furniture, ceramics, glass, textiles and books from school, on loan from private Swedish collections and museums.

Skepparesträtet 2, Falkenberg www.riandesign.se

Art Agenda

Margit Aasmäe, CEO of Fotografiska Tallinn and Jan Broman, founder of Fotografiska.

Photo: Tiina-Liina Uudam

Fotografiska to open in Tallinn Fotografiska opened its doors in 2010 in Stockholm with plans for growth, they planned for several locations throughout the world and in June, Tallinn will now open. It is the first Fotografiska to open outside of Sweden and will be closely followed by New York and London, all taking prime city locations. Fotografiska continues to diversify from the traditional museum experience by creating pleasant environments where people are encouraged to hang out and socialise, be inspired, question the status quo and grow as individuals.

Fotografiska is not your usual museum, it is an international meeting place for sharing knowledge and experience about photography’s infinite

expression and effect. For nine years, the museum has been a top attraction in Sweden and with the opening in Tallinn, they take their first step on the journey towards establishing international recognition and continuing their success story.

Fotografiska Tallinn is located in the heart of Telliskivi Creative City in a building known as the Red House. A full renovation of the exterior and construction work has been completed and now the interior will be the focus of the coming months. www.fotografiska.com

Five exhibitions in one at The Royal Academy of Fine Arts

Works by the artist Klara Kristalova, which is part of the exhibition ‘Nya Receptionsstycken’.

With just one visit to the Academy of Fine Arts this spring, you get the opportunity to see both older and more modern art and architecture over five exhibitions that will run from 9th March to 28th April.

The Academy’s Salarna presents both new works by its members and older graphics from the Academy’s collections in the exhibitions ‘Nya Receptionsstycken’ and ‘Voluter, Vedutor & Väggfält’. The architect’s 18th century.

In Galleri Väst and Ateljén, Kjell Strandqvist presents a series of paintings created between 2016 and 2019 in the exhibition ‘Image’.

In Tengbomhallen, the art project ‘Ottilia Adelborg Revisited’ is shown, where the curator Sara Rossling and a group of artists examine the legacy of the artist Ottilia Adelborg.

In Galleri Öst, The Royal Institute of Art has a series of presentations about its research with the exhibition ‘Haunted House: A Trailer’

by Peter Geschwind.

Jakobsgatan 27C, Stockholm www.konstakademien.se

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Art Agenda Supermarket challenges the Norms of Contemporary Art From 4-7th April 2019, the weekend before ‘Stockholm Art Week’, the ‘SUPERMARKET 2019 - Stockholm Independent Art Fair’ will showcase more than 50 artistic galleries from 45 cities around the world and over 150 participating artists.

Supermarket is an art fair that strives to offer the visitor an art experience rather than just focusing on sales.

The exhibitors come from many diverse places such as Tbilisi in Georgia, Cluj-Napoca in Romania, Perm and Saint Petersburg in Russia, Puebla in Mexico, Los Angeles in the United States, Ottawa and Montreal in Canada and Seoul in South Korea.

Additionally, there will be a number of panel discussions and performance art. This year’s theme: Temporary Moratorium: All Allowed? concerns and challenges normative frameworks within contemporary art, as well as its relation to the outside world. More information and a complete list of this year’s exhibitors can be found on the website.

Vanessa Donoso by her installation at Ormston House from Limerick.

Photo: Joakim Erixon Flodman

Sickla Front, Uddvägen 7, Sickla www.supermarketartfair.com

Human Nature at the Museum of World Culture Fotografiska

Trump with Miss Mexico. This is not Donald Trump. Photo: Alison Jackson, Artist London

The Museum of World Culture in Gothenburg has ever-changing themed exhibitions that focus on various global issues of the day.

The exhibition ‘Human Nature’ takes on the most burning issue of our time, consumption and climate. Human Nature is about the impact of consumption on our planet and how we can bring about changes and opportunities for a more sustainable world. The exhibition will be shown until 25th May 2020 and considers questions such as: How can we stop over-consuming and make good use of the old and broken instead of discarding it and buying new.

Södra vägen 54, Göteborg www.varldskulturmuseerna.se

Fotografiska is one of the world’s largest venues for photographic art. It is 100% privately owned and exhibits works that piques people interest & involvement, focussing on issues that need to be given the world’s attention.

Between 22nd February – 19th May, it’s Alison Jackson’s exhibition ‘Truth is Dead’. Royalty, politicians, and celebrities – no one is safe from Alison Jackson’s humorous photographic antics in the exhibition. With the help of lookalikes, she creates photographs where celebrities show us their scandalous side behind closed doors. The carefully orchestrated scenarios often confirm our worst prejudices and fears.

– The truth is dead. Nothing that we’re shown can be trusted, everything can be faked and nothing is authentic. What does this knowledge do to us? What does it do to our outlook and how we perceive each other? I want to highlight these issues. And to do that I use humour and the human desire to, in moderation, get a peek behind the public images of the celebrities we assign such great symbolic value to - says Alison Jackson.

Fotografiska, Stadsgårdshamnen 22, Stockholm www.fotografiska.com

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Experiences

Gold of Lapland Stretching from the mountains in the west to the sea in the east, Gold of Lapland in northern Sweden covers a vast area with mountains, rivers, lakes, forests and fields. Offering a wide range of activities that attract visitors from far and wide, there is something for all ages to suit all tastes. A place filled with some contrasting experiences, like complete tranquillity and intense adrenaline rushes, a place where urban and countryside life seamlessly meet and a place where memories of a lifetime are created.Â

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Experiences

G

old of Lapland’s biggest assets are the amazing people that live and work there and the beautiful nature. It´s a place for outdoor activities and also rest and relaxation. It´s a place for hanging out and having fun with your friends and for inviting guests and visitors to share the experience. Choose anything from adventurous white water rafting to tranquil river raft voyages, from exciting dog sledding expeditions to relaxing walks. Stay in a traditional Sami hut or sleep high in the treetops, cook food over an open fire, marvel at the Northern Lights and experience the bright summer nights. Visit museums, animal parks, wilderness centres or learn more about Sweden´s indigenous people.

You will arrive as a guest but leave as a friend.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

The whole area is very exciting for food lovers, with flavours from the forests and all that our land has to offer. Moose, reindeer, salmon, trout, mushrooms, berries and more – all pulled together into one culinary experience full of

flavour. Try a meal at one of our restaurants committed to preparing creative dishes made with local produce or cook your own meal outdoors over an open fire. Taste some wine made of blueberries and make sure that you stop by at Budhas Kafferosteri, a coffee roastery in Lycksele, that appears in the White Guide as the best roastery in Sweden in 2017. The owner’s love of coffee is clear to see.

THE 8 SEASONS OF SAPMÍ

Gold of Lapland is located in Sapmí, the traditional Sami settlement area that stretches from Norway in the west to Russia in the east.

The weather in northern Sweden is divided into eight different seasons instead of the traditional four. This due to the big natural changes that occur during the year and how they affect the life of a reindeer herder. During the months of June and July, Sapmí receives more energy from the sun than nearly all other places on earth, this is because the sun almost never sets. In

autumn, nature puts on a show of colour with bright yellow, orange and reds and through the winter time the sunlight is very sparse and the landscape is blanketed with thick, white glistening snow. This offers up a good chance to experience the magical northern lights – Aurora Borealis.

A WORD ON CULTURE

The area is well known for its many famous authors. Amongst others, there is Torgny Lindgren who became a member of the Swedish Academy in 1991. His work has been translated into more than thirty languages and is one of Sweden’s most internationally successful contemporary writers. At Raggsjöliden, you can visit the place where he grew up and learn more about him at the visitor centre in Raggsjö.

Text: Cecilia Wallinder Foto: Thea Holmqvist

Events this summer in Gold of Lapland MOTOR WEEK, LYCKSELE, 20-27th JULY

A week for everyone who enjoys the sounds of roaring engines. The city is a mecca for all thing’s engine-related. The Swedish Championship of Watercross – snowmobiles on water – is a popular event during this action-packed week.

NORSJÖ BEACH, 1-4th AUGUST

A weekend of beach volleyball and fun and games for all the family. Norsjö beach is a joyous occasion and every year attracts both players and visitors alike.

INAUGURATION, VINDELÄLVEN JUHTATDAHKA, 17th AUGUST

Because of the areas varied natural and cultural appeal, it is a candidate to become a biosphere reserve through UNESCO’s Man and the biosphere programme, the inauguration will take place by the river in Vindeln.

FACTS: Destination Gold of Lapland is an organisation owned by its member companies in Västerbotten county in Swedish Lapland.

GETTING THERE BY TRAIN: Skellefteå, Vindeln, Bastuträsk, Arvidsjaur, Lycksele, Umeå GETTING THERE BY AIR: Lycksele,

Arvidsjaur, Skellefteå, Umeå.

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Welcome to till Tylebäck Välkommen Tylebäck

Den Thenaturliga Natural Meeting Place mötesplatsen Möten • •Hotell • Relax • Restaurang Lunch Meetings Hotel •• Friskvård Health Care • Relax • Restaurant• • Lunch••Fest Party• •Events Events Tylebäck är en mötesplats dig who som vill få ut bästa ditt Tylebäck is a meeting place for för those want to det getmesta more och out of theav experience. arrangemang.

Vi är en modern hotelloch konferensanläggning med We are a modern hotel and conference facility with exciting architecture that seamspännande arkitektur som varsamt knyter samman historia och nutid. lessly connects history with the present day. Here you can combine effectiveness with Här kombinerar du effektivitet med avkoppling i natursköna relaxation in beneficial surroundings close to both the forest and the sea. omgivningar med närhet till både skog och hav.

Our big is to facilitate your jobertbyjobb planning engaging in your stay Vårpassion stora passion är att underlätta med attand planera och genomföra er with us. We are responsive, flexible and offer a high level of service.

We think a good host vistelse hos oss. Detta genom att vara lyhörda, flexibla och erbjuda en hög servicenivå. should Ett gottbe värdskap ser feature vi som ett a natural in naturligt everydayinslag life. i vår vardag.

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SUMMER IN THE ARCHIPELAGO

Summer memories for life Västervik is the archipelago city of Småland - with a capital A. Boats that service the archipelago idle offshore waiting to take you out to the beautiful islands of the Tjust archipelago. The family friendly Västervik Resort offers a mix of children’s activities, music shows and relaxing bathing opportunities. Västervik loves hosting events and our summer events calendar is fully packed with sports events, music performances and festivals. You’re invited too!

History

Siknäsfort

The fortress from the cold war Experience the adventure at the Siknäsfort, a top-secret fortress from the time of the cold war. Situated at 60 meters above sea level, overlooking the astounding Töre fjord.

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History

T

he fortress of Siknäs is nuclear proof and situated only a few kilometres from the northernmost point of the Baltic Sea. When you arrive at the Siknäsfort you will be met by guides who will take you through a tunnel, which was designed to deflect shock waves from the entrance of the fort. Blasted into the mountain you will find four floors to be explored.

There, among the preserved installations, you will find the museums exhibitions, which in an illustrative and interesting way will give you

an understanding of the Siknäs fortress – the northern lock during the cold war.

THE SUMMER OF 1987

Somebody reports a frogman coming up from the calm water. Out of several hundred observations 15 are reliable, and the conclusion this time is that a submarine has entered the inlet, declared the intelligence officer of Kalix defence area. Helicopters are dropping explosives and antisubmarine grenades to force the intruder to surface.

What is the result? Did they find a submarine? The mini submarine Spiggen II, is now placed in Töre harbour as a memory of the dramatic weeks.

TÖRE HARBOUR

Visit Töre harbour which has played an important role of the military history in the area.

You can have a look at the Swedish mini-submarine Spiggen II and from the autumn 2018 a gun tower masked as a summer cottage.

You can also get a certificate as evidence for your visit to the northernmost point of the Baltic Sea. Text: Editorial team Photo: Siknäsfortet

LOCATION

The nuclear proof fortress of Siknäs in Töre is situated a few kilometres from the northernmost point of the Baltic sea.

VISITING TIMES

During the summer the fort is open for everyone.

Opening hours 27/6 –19/8 Wednesday-Sunday between 11.00-16.00 Groups are welcome all year.

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Experiences

Travel in Hercule Poirot’s footsteps The world’s most legendary and mythical train ride, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train, or the Orient Express as it is popularly known, offers a journey like no other. Start the journey in London and be taken back to an era when the train represented the most elegant mode of transport. Ornate carriages, culinary dining experiences and an extremely personal service make it a travel experience that does not resemble anything else, even today. Twice a year, the train makes the original trip between Paris and Istanbul, and who knows – perhaps one of Agatha Christie’s characters will be lounging in the piano bar with a hint of danger in his eyes, casually swirling a snifter in his hand . . .

The train’s two Royal Suites provide every possible luxury, fit for royalty.

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Naturally, the train’s impeccably dressed staff greet the passengers on the platform.

Experiences

The service on board is first-class - just like everything else. Note the beautiful interiors finished in polished mahogany and intarsia ...

I

nterest in taking exclusive train trips is increasing all the time, says Ulf Almhagen, Product Manager at the tour operator Travel Beyond.

– As soon as we mention the Orient Express – or the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, as it is actually called - on our website, we get a lot of hits. It attracts a tremendous amount of interest, even though most do not have any idea of what ​​ it costs.

– Just the words ‘Orient Express’ is something that excites most of us. There is so much history, mystery, and romantic elegance associated to those two little words, and it appeals to many.

– But most people probably don’t have a clear idea of ​​what the train journey actually entails. Traveling on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is to go back in time and travel as one did in the past. The carriages are from the 1920s and have been thoroughly renovated to their former glory, therefore do not have all the modern conveniences we may be used to today. Apart from in the two Royal Suites, there are no showers on board, there is one toilet at the end of each carriage and passengers sleep in bunk beds. In other words, it’s exactly like it was in the beginning.

– It is extremely beautiful, with mahogany, intarsia, crystal lamps and highly polished brass details - but modern it isn’t. The hot water for the coupes is heated on a stove at one end of the carriage. But it has always been the idea that the train be renovated back to the way it was originally.

– When traveling on the train you always have the feeling that you could stumble upon an Agatha Christie character at any time.

UNIQUE RESTORATION PROCESS

– All carriages have a unique and, in most cases, a very exciting history. One carriage has bullet-holes in, which testifies to an assault the train was subjected to in the early 1900s. Another piece of history tells of how the King of Romania was stuck on the train in a snowdrift for five days, says Ulf Almhagen.

– It is actually the case that the train could easily have been lost to the history books after World War II, when Europe lay in ruins and luxury train travel was not high up on the agenda.

But the American financier and hotel entrepreneur James Sherwood saw two dilapidated carriages from the original Orient Express during an auction in Monte Carlo in 1977, and decided to restore the whole train to its former glory.

He diligently searched the entire continent and eventually managed to locate a number of the carriages. One of the carriages had been used

for many years, as a means of transportation for racing pigeons, another was a picturesque greenhouse and a third had been used as a brothel for Hitler’s officers in France’s Limoges.

A long and arduous restoration process took place, and in 1982 Sherwood was finally able to inaugurate the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express through his company Belmond, a fully restored train with a total cost of $ 31 million.

– Traveling on the train is a wonderful experience, even though it lacks modern conveniences. If you travel the longer route all the way through to Istanbul, the train stops every other night to allow passengers to stay in a hotel and thus have the opportunity to refresh themselves and sleep in a proper bed for the night.

– The original route Paris-Istanbul departs only twice a year and is sold out many years in advance. For departures in 2020, there is already a waiting list of over 900 people. But the more regular route London-Venice is also a lifelong memory maker. Standing in the bar with everyone dressed up to the nines, while a pianist is playing softly in the background is an extremely special experience. It really feels like being in an Agatha Christie book!

And everyone is glancing at each other and wondering who’s going to be killed next!

– Exactly, says Ulf Almhagen with a laugh.

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Experiences ting in the dining car and being served the most fantastic dishes and drinking champagne from long-stemmed crystal glasses. The whole experience breathes luxury, and it is easy to understand that such a trip was the most exclusive you could get in the early 20th century.

BELMOND ROYAL SCOTSMAN

– Belmond, the owner of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, also has other train lines of similar dignity, all of them represent all that is associated with the word luxury, says Ulf Almhagen.

– There is, for example, a fantastic train journey through Scotland. Belmond Royal Scotsman offers its 40 passengers an unforgettable experience through wild lochs, majestic rock formations and serene lakes in Scotland.

En route you can visit sights such as private castles, whiskey distilleries, salmon farms and quaint towns. Delicious food is served in the two dining cars and the coupes are very spacious and luxurious with two floor standing beds and a private shower. There is even a spa on board.

– As the train slowly eases out of the station in Edinburgh, a lone bagpipe can be heard as it follows the train along the platform. Then the train pushes on and its tones slowly disappear in the morning mist. A truly magical experience! It is difficult to find a better way to

experience the sublime Scottish Highlands than with Belmond Royal Scotsman, says Ulf Almhagen.

BELMOND GRAND HIBERNIAN

– The latest addition to Belmond’s and the world’s most exclusive collection of trains is the Belmond Grand Hibernian, which with its usual style, class and elegance offers its guests an unforgettable similar experience from Dublin. The tours go to mythical places like Cork, Killarney, Connemara, Galway and Belfast. The train’s 16 coupes have a design inspired by classic Gregorian architecture with a fair amount of folklore and tradition with a modern twist.

– Each carriage is named after an Irish county and the coupes are decorated to match the county’s own classic tartan. Kerry has sophisticated shades of purple while county Down has vivid tones of orange. Rich red tones reign in Leitrim while cool blue tones welcome guests to Waterford. All coupes can be interconnected for families travelling together. There is even a coupe for those with reduced mobility. Take in the beautiful, wild and varied Irish scenery from the panorama-carriage with an ice-cold Stout or Bushmill’s expertly served in Wexford crystal!

BELMOND HIRAM BINGHAM

– The most exclusive way to travel through the sky-high mountain peaks and steep plung-

ing waterfalls, from the old Inca capital Cusco to the mysterious ruined city of Machu Picchu is with the classic luxury train Belmond Hiram Bingham’s blue and gold coloured carriages. Onboard the elegant Pullman carriages from the 1920s awaits a warm world of polished brass, fancy cutlery and sparkling crystal.

The train consists, among other things, of two fantastic dining cars where first-class dishes are prepared and served. After departing from Cusco, the journey along the Urubamba River travels up towards Machu Picchu while serving a hearty brunch. Upon arrival there is a guided tour of the old ruined city. During the afternoon, an English afternoon tea buffet is served at the Belmond Sanctuary Lodge. During the return journey back to Cusco, cocktails and dinner are served on board the Belmond Hiram Bingham. For many, a trip to Machu Picchu is a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience, and on this legendary luxury train it will certainly be a magical journey you will never forget!

BELMOND ANDEAN EXPLORER

– Belmond Andean Explorer is South America’s first real luxury train with overnight accommodation and Belmond’s second train line in Peru after the Hiram Bingham. Belmond Andean Explorer is one of the world’s highest railway lines and takes in the stunning views of the Andes from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and

The bar on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express leaves nothing to be desired in terms of comfort, luxury and flair.

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Experiences

The food on board is prepared by professional chefs and is of the highest international class.

on to Arequipa. Four separate tours give guests the opportunity to explore the Colca canyon, the islands of Lake Titicaca and exciting detours to remote villages along the way. On board the Belmond Andean Explorer it’s all inclusive, both meals and excursions are included in the price. The interiors of the bright, large coupes are decorated in soft tones of alpaca wool and grey Andean slate by the designer Inge Moore. It has a modern feel that is more design hotel than classic train romance in the Pullman carriages. This exclusive train has two dining cars, an observation car with an outdoor balcony and a lovely lounge.

EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS

Trains are wonderful ... to travel by train is to see nature and humanity, cities ... and rivers.

In other words, to see life, Agatha Christie once said. With Eastern & Oriental Express, the golden age of travel is recreated on this train journey – in one of the world’s most beautiful and exotic regions. Gourmet food, personalised service and luxurious coupes converge in a pleasing harmony while the train slowly travels through the tropical jungle close to the Earth’s equator. The following cities can be visited on some of the various tours; Bangkok and Chiang Mai in Thailand, Singapore, and Vientiane in Laos. Why not travel between Singapore and Bangkok on this wonderful train?

– Start the journey with an overnight stay at the classic Raffles Hotel in Singapore to be fully in line with the luxurious experience waiting for you on board!

ROVOS RAIL

– A 16 m2 coupe with its own bathtub, gourmet dinners with champagne and an observation car with panoramic windows!

– The staff are discreet and service-orient-

ed and it is perfectly fine to enjoy your privacy if you so wish. On Rovos Rail it’s always all inclusive, making life on board very comfortable.

The food is superb, there are always two main dishes to choose from, the wines served are of course local and well-chosen, the champagne is naturally French. The dress code on board during the daytime is smart casual and for dinnertime a jacket and tie for the men is required.

Dark suits and dresses are excellent attire. The journey takes a leisurely pace through the undeveloped landscape and the train stops regularly for exciting excursions.

– There are several different routes and themed trips to choose from, all of which provide a unique experience. During the various trips which range from 3 to 15 days, Rovos Rail operates in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ethiopia, Angola and Tanzania. The most popular train journeys with Rovos Rail are Pretoria to Cape Town, Pretoria to Victoria Falls and perhaps mostly Cape Town to Dar es Salaam. This is also a trip that you have to book several years in advance because of the huge interest.

– One of this year’s new routes is the Dar es Salaam to Maputo line, which runs straight across the African continent from west to east.

That trip sold out at record speed!

There is also an environmental aspect of train travel in relation to other modes of transport.

– Absolutely! says Ulf Almhagen. The vast majority of our travellers are of course well aware that a train journey is kinder to nature than, for example, flying. But I think you can compare the train journeys on par with a luxury cruise. You also have every conceivable luxury on board, whilst making stops on the shores of exotic places making unforgettable experiences.

– But a big difference with the train is that you have amazing views outside the window throughout the trip instead of an endless ocean!

STOPPED IN THE ÖRESUND TUNNEL

- The Orient Express actually departed on a unique journey from Stockholm in 2013, with the intention of taking the Öresund tunnel link to Denmark and then further on towards Venice. But unfortunately, the train was not allowed through the tunnel with passengers on board, due to the fact that there are boilers in each carriage heating the hot water. As a result, all the passengers had to board a bus to cross over the bridge instead.

- So, to experience a train journey that will be as wonderful and magical as one can ever imagine, one should at some point in life take the Belmond British Pullman from London and switch to Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Calais on the French side for an unforgettable adventure, concludes Ulf Almhagen at Travel Beyond.

Text: Tony Manieri Photo: Travel Beyond AB

The History of the Orient Express The history of the Orient Express began in the second half of the 19th century. At that time, more and more luxury train lines were established in Europe, in order to find quick alternatives to the long boat trips to the Far East and the colonies.

To realise the dream of a line from Paris to Constantinople, the Belgian Georges Nagelmackers succeeded in reaching an agreement with the authorities in France, Germany, Austria, Hungary and Romania after lengthy negotiations. He involved King Leopold II of Belgium in his plans agreeing that the king could travel for free on the trains for as long as he lived.

In 1883, the first Orient Express travelled through Eastern Europe to Giurji in Romania, where passengers had to take the ferry across the river and continue on to Varna on the Black Sea. From there, the boat trip to Constantinople took 18 hours.

When the Simplon tunnel was completed in 1906, the route changed to Paris - Lausanne - Brig - Simplon - Milan - Venice, where the Orient Express stopped because the Austrians refused to allow the train to pass through when it did not go through Vienna.

King Carol II of Romania was one of the well-heeled travellers, as was Ferdinand I of Bulgaria. Other celebrities who gladly travelled on the train were Leo Tolstoy, Marlene Dietrich, Lawrence of Arabia and the spy Mata Hari - and of course Hercule Poirot.

REAL ADVENTURES

In 1901, the Orient Express ploughed right into the station’s restaurant in Frankfurt, causing great devastation.

In 1929 the train got stuck in the snow and it took five days to rescue the passengers. It was the event that inspired Agatha Christie to write the classic Murder of the Orient Express.

In 1931, a bomb exploded under the train at the Biatorbagy Bridge outside Budapest.

Officer Sylvester Matsuka had placed the bomb to ‘punish atheists who travelled with the luxury train, thereby liberating the world from communism’. One of the passengers was the American cabaret singer Joséphine Baker, who helped the injured passengers.

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

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Travel

Bremen – a city with many faces

Bremen, the cosmopolitan city on the Weser river, looks back on 1,200 years of history. Two of Bremen’s most famous landmarks are the magnificent Weser Renaissance town hall and the grand old statue of Roland on the historical market square. They enjoy the protection of UNESCO World Heritage status and rank alongside the cathedral, the Schnoor (Bremen’s oldest quarter) and the red-brick buildings of Böttcherstrasse as some of the city’s most distinctive attractions.

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Travel

T

he Bremen Town Musicians from the Brothers Grimm fairytale are the emblem of the city and a ubiquitous presence, most famously in the form of a bronze statue.

In Bremen, the celebrations go on all year round. Not a month goes by without some exciting event taking place in the city: the Freimarkt (the oldest funfair in Germany), the music festival and maritime festival, Europe’s biggest six-day cycle race, musicals and plays, prestigious art exhibitions and last but not least the traditional Christmas market, which also extends along the Schlachte Embankment.

BREMEN CELEBRATES THE TOWN MUSICIANS SUMMER IN 2019

“Come with us to Bremen, there’s no better place to be.” This is how the Bremen Town Musicians sang the city’s praises in the Brothers Grimm fairytale. The tale is not only wellknown around the world but also remains very topical. A unique quartet of four very different individuals sets off on a heroic journey, each contributing what they are best at – it is the perfect example of teamwork.

The people of Bremen are proud of their fairytale animals, which are as much an emblem of the city as the town hall and Roland statue, a joint UNESCO World Heritage site.

Summer 2019 marks the 200th anniversary of the second edition of the Grimm fairytales, the first time the story of the fearless four appeared. What better reason to celebrate?

The fairytale festivities will take place from March to October.

FESTIVALS IN 2019

Bremen hosts a number of open-air events in summer. The La Strada international street circus festival is a highlight in Bremen’s summer events calendar. It features performers from all over the world, who transform the city into a giant and colourful stage. From 13 to 16 June 2019, acrobats, artistes, dancers and mime artists will be wowing the crowds at around 150 events, making this open-air summer spectacular one of the biggest and most breathtaking events of its kind. The 32nd Breminale arts festival will take place from 3 to 7 July 2019 at its usual site on the banks of the Weser river. Visitors can look forward to a wide-ranging programme of entertainment drawn from the cultural scene in Bremen. Casting off for catchy numbers is the motto at the International Maritime Festival from 2 to 4 August. This musical extravaganza in the north of Bremen features seafaring ditties and shanties from all over the world and a blend of entertainment, culture and fun. For three days, bands from Germany and around the globe as well as local shanty choirs transform the Vegesack district into a maritime open-air stage.

FESTIVALS THAT LOOK BACK ON CENTURIES OF TRADITION

No other German fair has more rides than the Bremen Freimarkt, which always takes place during the later half of October. From 18 October to 3 November 2019 more than 320 fairground attractions will be set up at the Bürgerweide grounds, which cover 100,000 square metres and are just a stone’s throw from the old quarter. This Bremen tradition is not to be missed – just ask one of the four million or so people who visit in an average year. There’s

also a quieter ‘little freimarkt’ on the market square. It’s a festival for the senses, with piping hot doughnuts, roasted almonds and tasty liquorice set out on old-fashioned stalls that reflect the tradition of this market, which dates back almost a thousand years. One week after the fair opens more than 200,000 people line the streets for the grand Freimarkt parade.

Bremen’s delightful Christmas market will be held from 25 November to 23 December 2019 on the historical market square, surrounded by the town hall, the cathedral, the Church of Our Lady and the Schütting guildhall. Glittering illuminations, the glow of candlelight and the sea of decorated stalls create a special atmosphere that enchants more and more visitors every year. The air is full of delicious aromas – freshly roasted almonds, gingerbread and glühwein. There’s no doubt about it: Bremen’s Christmas market is one of the most enchanting anywhere in Germany, not least because of its location on the market square set against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage town hall.

THE SCHLACHTE MAGIC

The Schlachte promenade along the Weser river also joins in the seasonal fun, when markets of Christmas past are brought to life at the Schlachte Magic. Traders in medieval attire offer historical wares, and traditional food and drink can be sampled at a wide choice of stands. The marquees and booths that overlook the river are beautifully decorated in winter themes, while a range of events on board the ships provide entertainment to match.

Text: Marie Tillman Foto: Bremen Tourism MAGAZINE SWEDEN

55

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Nostalgia

Volvo

Museum

Volvo Museum red

Inside the Volvo Museum, with a highly polished Volvo PV 52, model year 1937 in focus. Photo: Pressbild

As most people surely know, Volvo means ‘I roll’. A phenomenally accurate name, and almost a hundred years after it all started back in 1927, the name is more than ever, just as relevant. At Volvo Museum there are examples of most of what Volvo has produced over the past decades; everything from Volvo Duett as a fire engine with a water pump on the back, buses, trucks, boat engines and aircraft engines to futuristic concept cars and the king’s old PV.

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Nostalgia

Advertisement images from Volvo’s extensive archive. Left: a white Volvo P1800 from the early 1960s, similar to the one driven in the ‘Saint’, the famous television series featuring Roger Moore as Simon Templar. Top right: Volvo Amazon year model 1956. Bottom right: Volvo PV 444 from the mid-1950s. Photo: Volvo Image Gallery

J

ust as there is something from IKEA in every Swedish home, so has every Swedes over forty at some time, for certain owned a Volvo.

- That’s certainly safe to say, says Sören Nyeboe, CEO of Volvo Museum in Gothenburg. And if you have not actually owned one yourself, it’s at least guaranteed that you have travelled in one!

- Either you have been in a car or taxi, or maybe bus. Volvo is so much more than just cars.

Here at the museum we have many examples of cars, buses and trucks as well as boat engines and aircraft engines.

What is it like to run Volvo Museum? Is there any interest from the public?

- There most definitely is, says Sören. We have about 90,000 visitors per year, and we don’t see any slow-down in interest - quite the opposite actually.

- We get visitors from all over the world, which is of course, brilliant. Many people appreciate the extensiveness of the museum, because we cover Volvo’s entire production.

Are you able to help out when it comes to film and TV, for example, where the storyline might be set a few decades back in time?

- Yes, we have provided several cars and trucks for many productions over the years, most recently for the successful TV show ’Vår tid är nu’. All the trucks that drive up to the back of the restaurant and unload come from us! confides Sören Nyeboe,

not without a certain amount of pride in his voice.

And how many people come just to see the Saint’s white’s Volvo?

- It’s hard to say, but it’s a real pearl, Sören laughs. It’s very cool that we have this one at the museum. It stands in pride of place, alongside photos of Roger Moore on the wall behind. For anyone who experienced the 1960s when the TV series aired, it is of course especially cool.

- We actually have some other so-called celebrity cars; we have amongst others Selma Lagerlöfs Volvo that she had at Mårbacka. She herself didn’t have a driving license, but since she had a driver it was no problem of course.

- Then we have King Gustaf V’s Volvo PV60 from 1946, which our current king actually drives every other year in the Royal Rally in Öland. He was given the car as a gift on his fiftieth birthday, because they are, so to speak, age-mates Does the car have any special equipment, seeing as it belongs to royalty?

- No, except for the fact that it has been fitted with safety belts, which were not standard back in 1946. They are woven in a special pink fabric that matches the upholstery. Very classy!

NEW EXHIBITION OF THE BEST SELLERS - On 11th May, we launch our new exhibition, which is fully dedicated to the 2-series. It is Volvo’s most successful model with 2.8 million cars sold, says Sören.

- For the older generation, it was all about the Amazon and PV, but most people today have certainly been sitting in a Volvo 240.

At the exhibition, we will be showing off a

police model Volvo 240, which we have borrowed from Polismuseet (Police Museum). In addition to this, there will be another surprise, says Sören Nyeboe secretively.

And then of course you have a selection of rally cars at the museum?

- Yes, we do, rallying and racing have always been big for Volvo. We have everything from the Singh brothers PV 544 in which they won the Safari Rally with in 1965 to Rickard Rydells S 40, with which he won among other races, the BTCC, the British Touring Car Championship in 1998.

- And then we also showcase several so-called concept cars, i.e. models that were never put into production, but which are none the less, very cool and futuristic in their design.

What does the future look like for Volvo Museum?

- It looks very bright! says Sören. There is a huge and apparently never-ending interest in Volvo, and we are constantly developing new exhibition ideas. New for this season is that we have set up a film corner, where visitors can sit down and watch slightly longer films, not just the short and very charming commercials from the past, that are shown on screens throughout the museum. We can now show some older films that are maybe 10-20 minutes long, which will certainly be very much appreciated by many of our visitors.

- Visitors can now enjoy a cup of coffee, sitting in an old car seat in the film corner and just relax for a while, concludes Søren Nyeboe.

Text: Tony Manieri

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

59

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EVENTS

SUMMER 2019

The Summer’s Event Highlights

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Opera

Anders Aldgård

The Guldmasken Award winner does opera with Smålandsoperan

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MAGAZINE SWEDEN

Opera Anders Aldgård has done most things, both on the large and small stage all around the country. He has starred together with Nils Poppe at Fredriksdalsteatern in Helsingborg, he has directed musicals, operetta and summer theatre all over the land from Gunnebo Castle to the Oscar Theatre and the China Theatre in Stockholm. But never an opera – that is, until he got a call from Smålandsoperan. . .

H

work is exactly the same regardless of whether you play something light-hearted like The Spanish Fly or whether it is Hamlet. The only difference is that in this case you will hopefully make people laugh - which is not always easy!

What are your thoughts when it comes to Don Pasquale? This is the first time that you have directed opera isn’t it?

ow did the collaboration with Smålandsoperan come about?

- I have a small cottage just outside Växjö in Småland, and I try to be there as much as possible during the summer, says Anders Aldgård. But because I have worked for so long now with summer theatre, it has, for obvious reasons, not been as much as I would have liked. I love to watch summer theatre myself and have seen Smålandsoperan’s performances on several occasions. I really liked what I have seen, so when the question was posed, it was easy to say ‘yes please’. Now it finally works for me to combine my work with spending summer in the cottage!

Smålandsoperan differs a lot from what you have worked with before, for example they do not have their own stage.

– No, that’s right. They do not have their own stage or rehearsal rooms or scenography workshops. But other than that, what I have seen at Smålandsoperan is very good, I really appreciate that they are driven by a desire and a passion for what they do. It reminds me of how I started out myself back in the day - you had an idea of ​​something that you wanted to do and the ambition, even if the resources you had were not very big. You simply worked with something you were passionately in love with, and that is exactly what Smålandsoperan does today.

This is probably quite unusual because most people go in the opposite direction; once they are a success in Sweden, they want to make it in the rest of the world as well?

– Yes, maybe that’s true. But I have never strived for Hollywood, and as I usually say: If Hollywood want me, they will surely let me know! says Anders Aldgård with a hearty laugh.

Björn Elmgren in the role of the bitter Don Pasquale – this summer highlight at Åseda Folkets Park. Photo: Lena Hammar

– I have had the privilege over the years, of doing many big productions, and so it is a pleasure to be able to do something like Don Pasquale together with Smålandsoperan. The work is driven entirely by love and a strong interest in what we are working on. It is both great fun and invigorating!

At the same time, it is a kind of further development of the summer theatre and slapstick, which you have worked a lot with over the years.

– You could say that. Don Pasquale is a so-called comic opera, and we certainly take that up that aspect. It will hopefully be a very funny performance, and an opera performed in a way that most people may not be used to.

– The approach and the seriousness of the

ACCOLADES In the summer of 1983 Anders Aldgård had the opportunity to play opposite his role model and great idol Nils Poppe, when he needed a replacement for Hans-Peter Edh in Två man om en änka at Fredriksdals Theatre in Helsingborg. Aldgård is a self-taught actor and director, but has completed additional training at the Swedish National Academy of Mime & Acting in Malmö.

In 1991 Anders Aldgård’s company took over the New Theatre in Malmö’s Folkets Park, in collaboration with Julius Malmström and renamed it Nöjesteatern. Among the successes of Nöjesteatern that can be mentioned are My Fair Lady, Me and My Girl, Can-Can, Pippi Longstocking, The Spanish Fly, Minister i klister, Skaffa mig en tenor, Vita Hästen and Guys and Dolls. He directed Victor/Victoria at the Oscar Theatre, which resulted in two Guldmasker awards: Jan Malmsjö for Best Male Lead Role and Sofie Lindberg for Best Female Support Role. He became Magnus Härenstam’s number one choice of director for Härenstam’s production Morsning and Goodbye at Lisebergs Theatre, Intiman and the Oscar Theatre.

Anders was also the voice of the bird Zazu in The Lion King, Lion King 2 and Lion King 3. In 2008 he directed The Producers – Det våras för Hitler at the China Theatre in Stockholm which resulted in six Guldmasker awards including Best Performance, Best Lead Role (Claes Malmberg) and Best Director (Anders Aldgård). He also directed

– Yes, it’s true. I have worked with musical theatre throughout my whole life, but have myself seen a lot of opera and look forward to the work with great joy and confidence. It reminds very much of working with musicals and operetta, which I have done many times.

Moreover, Don Pasquale is not as famous here in Sweden as in the rest of the operatic world, which is fun. It’s what you call bel canto, which is a stunningly beautiful music style. We put the songs and the music first, but since it is a comic piece, it is also just as important to act the opera and not just sing the opera. We will work a lot with the acting to achieve a nice balance between the beautiful songs and the comic side.

– Opera can sometimes be a little static when you are just standing in a beautiful pose wearing a beautiful costume and singing beautifully. We will try to remedy this and do something completely different this summer at Åseda Folkets Park. The premiere is on 20th July and I am already longing for it!

And then you can cycle to work from your summer cottage!

– Not really, but it will certainly be a special feeling to be able to stay in sunny Småland all summer, concludes Anders Aldgård with a smile.

Text: Tony Manieri Photo: Smålandsoperan

this same musical at Oslo Nye Teater, which was awarded the Komiprisen for Best Stage Performance in Norway 2011. He directed the success The Addams Family at Lorensbergs Theatre in Gothenburg. He has directed three performances for Skövde Operettsällskap: Vita Hästen 2007, Spanska Flugan 2008 and Charmören från Värsås 2009. In the summer of 2016, he directed Sugar - I Hetaste Laget at Fredriksdals Theatre in Helsingborg with Eva Rydberg and Tomas Petersson; and in the summer of 2018 Fars Lilla Tös with Eva and Birgitta Rydberg and Anders ‘Ankan’ Johansson. The years 2017-18, he directed the success Sound of Music at Nöjesteatern, featuring amongst others Elisa Lindström, Christopher Wollter and Sofie Lindberg, he also had a small role himsel as Max Detweiler.

With the exception of 2012 and 2016, Aldgård has between 2009-2018 directed and choreographed summer theatre at Gunnebo Castle in Mölndal outside Gothenburg.

In 2015 he directed, collaborated on and wrote song lyrics for Charley’s Tant with Claes Malmberg and Jan Malmsjö, a huge success. It was performed both in Malmö and Stockholm to overcrowded audiences and was later broadcast on TV. In 2017 he put on Spanska Flugan with, among others, Sven Melander, Ewa Roos, Reuben Sallmander and Hanna Lindblad; and in 2018, Kuta & Kör with Allan Svensson, Sofie Lindberg, Lars-Åke ‘Babsan’ Wilhelmsson, Ola Forssmed, Lotta Thorell, Hans Josefsson and Christian Åkesson.

MAGAZINE SWEDEN

63

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Photo: Louis Mélancon. Courtesy of the Metropolitan Opera Archives

Opera

Birgit Nilsson Museum – a museum that must be experienced!

When Birgit Nilsson made her debut at the Metropolitan on 18th December 1959, she was already a big star in Europe, but overnight she became front page material on all the biggest American newspapers and thus throughout the whole world.

H

er Isolde was a knock out with both audiences and critics alike; ‘Birgit Nilsson as Isolde shines like a new star in Metropolitan’s sky’ and ‘It was a wideeyed and almost stunned audience that staggered out after the performance’.

Find out about all this and much more at this year’s exhibition that has the theme Birgit Nilsson and the Met. In the unique environment of the former family home, see original costumes from the Met, personal items, memorabilia, props, film clips, and an accompanying audio guide tells of further stories and plays songs. Guided tours of the

residence are available and home-baked cakes and sandwiches are served in the genuine and peaceful environment of the Stables café.

A LIVELY MUSEUM! Concerts and lectures are also arranged at the museum. Inspired by Birgit’s commitment to new singing talent, an annual Masterclass is also given.

At the opening of the season on 17th May, Birgit’s birthday, Operafabriken will hold an evening concert called Den första kyssen (The First Kiss).

This summer, in collaboration with the Friends of Birgit Nilsson Society, the popular ‘Music & Encounters’ will be held on four Sunday evenings.

During the Birgit Nilsson days 2019, between 29th July to 4th August, the museum will be closed for the whole week. In its place, the mu-

seum will be open for a Masterclass with opera singers. During the week, participants can take part in the classes that conclude with a concert in Västra Karup’s church on Friday 2nd August. The week grandly concludes with the ‘Birgit Nilsson Festive Concert’ on Saturday 3rd August and is repeated on Sunday, 4th August. This outdoor concert presents a program with excerpts from Aida, Fidelio, Turandot, Lohengrin and Tristan & Isolde. Leif Segerstam leads Helsingborg’s Symphony Orchestra, choir singers from Bjäre church choir, Helsingborg Concert Hall Choir and a large number of internationally active soloists.

The highlight of the summer!

Text: Birgit Nilsson Museum MAGAZINE SWEDEN

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