Experience and Create Together During the Forum

Region Jämtland Härjedalen is coordinating a cultural programme during the forum, giving participants the opportunity to experience the region’s cultural life and heritage both as an audience and through active participation.

“Art and culture are a universal language that can bring people together on equal terms. During the forum, we want to showcase some of the distinctive characteristics of our region,” says Magnus Aspegren, Regional Development Director at Region Jämtland Härjedalen.

Jämtland Härjedalen is a part of Sápmi, the traditional homeland of the Sámi people, which extends across northern Sweden, Norway and Finland, and the Kola Peninsula in Russia. South Sámi culture, language, traditions and reindeer husbandry are an important part of Jämtland Härjedalen’s identity. The cultural programme features Marika Renhuvud, whose work spans performing arts, the traditional vocal expression joik and other cultural projects both within Sápmi and internationally.

Most of the cultural programme will take place on Wednesday 26 August during a dinner at Jamtli, the county museum. A central feature is participant involvement, giving the opportunity to help create and shape the activities. Throughout the week, there will also be other opportunities to take part in community dance and community circus.

“In a broader sense, culture is about how people express themselves, share values and create a sense of community. Sport, dance, circus and other forms of cultural expression can therefore serve as important arenas for connection, participation and development,” says Magnus Aspegren.

Dance has a strong position in the region’s cultural life, and the forum will include community dance workshops where movement, creativity and togetherness take centre stage. The focus is on participation and experience rather than performance. The workshops will be led by dance artist Maria Ulriksson, who has extensive experience of community dance work both in Sweden and internationally.

During the forum Nordcirkus, Sweden’s only circus company with roots in the mountain region, will host community circus workshops where participants can explore and create together. Nordcirkus will also perform The Völva, a production inspired by Norse mythology, as well as a fire show.

“We hope that the cultural programme will provide participants with new experiences, lasting memories and positive impressions of their stay in Östersund,” concludes Magnus Aspegren.

*Photo of Daniel and Sara Oja, Nordcirkus, by Nordcirkus.

About Region Jämtland Härjedalen

The cultural programme has been developed by Estrad Norr, the regional performing arts institution in Jämtland Härjedalen.

Region Jämtland Härjedalen is responsible for healthcare, dental care, public transport and regional development across the county. Together with municipalities, Mid Sweden University, the business sector, the tourism sector, sports organizations and other partners, they work to promote sustainable development and good living conditions in Jämtland Härjedalen.