UngdomsKilden Its 10th Anniversary
UngdomsKilden
“Happy birthday to us,” says Silje Hansen Flemmen, director of UngdomsKilden. For more than 10 years, Silje has guided a large number of young people through the talent development program, and for the occasion, she borrowed a uniform from Pizzabakeren. It turns out that Pizzabakeren is a favorite source of calories during practice sessions.
Uniforms from Pizzabakeren
Artistic performance by two former students
Sing-along
Chair Silje Hansen Flemmen is leading the celebration
A packed house at Kilden
More artistic elements
The UngdomsKilden enrichment program UngdomsKilden designed for young people aged 13–19 who are interested in theater, and was launched back in 2015. Bentein Baardson, then director ofperforming arts centre Kilden performing arts centre, wanted to offer the region’s youth a theater development program, and that is how UngdomsKilden came UngdomsKilden .
“I think we need UngdomsKilden give young people who are passionate about theater the opportunity to immerse themselves in the craft. We teach acting technique, text analysis, voice work, and movement within a professional setting where they can get to know the entire theater process,” says Silje.
Friday’s celebration brought together former and current students from near and far. Multisalen Kilden filled with props from past performances, the young people contributed several performances, and photo montages and video messages were shown on the screens. The first ten years are behind us—what about the next ten?
“We’ve seen a significant increase in the number of applicants in recent years, and I think that’s because many people see this as an opportunity to find out if this is a path they want to pursue further in life,” Silje continues.
Many of the students have become avid theatergoers after their time at UngdomsKilden, she says. The students see almost everything that happens here at Kilden, and in that way, they become important ambassadors for the theater. Seeking out artistic and cultural experiences becomes a natural part of their lives, even if they don’t necessarily choose that career path.
During the celebration on Friday evening, many people—both former and current students—expressed how important it has been to have a safe community where they can thrive.
“The sense of community at UngdomsKilden truly unique. I often receive messages, letters, and texts from students who describe UngdomsKilden warm and grateful terms. Of course, that moves me and makes me happy, and in those moments I feel like I have the most important job in the world,” concludes Silje Hansen Flemmen, Head of Children and Youth Services.