Heléne Don Lind: Community, history and vitality
Swedish educator and dance artist Heléne Don Lind has worked with Jewish folk dances for decades. During the Jewish Culture Festival, she describes the experience as both personal and universal – an encounter that gives strength, builds community, and reminds us of the value of cultural heritage.
photo and text: Martin Farstad Borg
A warm welcome
For Don Lind, the festival is a source of both joy and development. She says that each visit gives her new perspectives and new energy, and that being invited to Trondheim is a great honor.
Starstruck by the community
"It's like entering a warm, safe Jewish community where we meet in different art forms, in music and in dance around all events."
She describes how standing on stage with international stars fills her with inspiration.
"People come from all over the world... I get starstruck time and time again by the fine bands that are invited and that I get the opportunity to dance with."
Nourishment for the soul
"It gives me nourishment for the soul. Strength, get strength. Hair."
For Don Lind, dance is not only an art form, but also a source of strength and a way to gain energy. The festival gives her a feeling of being part of something bigger.
History as a pillar
"This festival really takes care of its history and informs the people of Trondheim and the population of Norway about our Jewish history."
She sees the festival as an important arena for conveying knowledge about Jewish history and contributing to greater understanding in society.
Breaking down prejudices
"We get to know others. We get to know each other. Maybe you get rid of some prejudices, you get a little closer. You get a greater understanding of who we are – and we with them.”
She highlights the encounters between people as the core of the festival, especially in a time she describes as difficult. Sharing culture, dance and music becomes for her a way to build bridges and create cohesion.
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