Peter Andreas Kjeldsberg: Minorities give the city strength
Former Ringve director and board member of the Jewish Cultural Festival Trondheim, Peter Andreas Kjeldsberg, has dedicated a long life to culture and history. For him, the festival is an annual gift – because it opens doors, builds bridges and reminds the city of the importance of minorities.
photo and text: Martin Farstad Borg
An annual gift
Kjeldsberg describes the festival as a highlight he always looks forward to, and a valuable insight into history.
“It’s an annual gift that I’m very happy to be a part of, and one that I’ve been following for quite a few years. Getting an insight into the Jewish history of Trondheim – I think that’s brilliant.”
This personal involvement sets the tone for his reflections on the synagogue and the festival’s open atmosphere.
Close relationship with the synagogue
After a long life at Ringve Museum, he was engaged by Rita Abrahamsen to contribute to the festival, and later as a board member. He tells how the meetings at the synagogue have always been characterized by warmth and inclusion.
"I was so happy to come here to the synagogue. I have always been welcomed, without reservation."
The experience of being included makes him see parallels between his own background and the festival's role as a meeting place for various minorities.
Minority community
Kjeldsberg reflects on why he himself feels at home in the environment – and how minorities share something in common.
"I'm queer, and I'm welcomed in such an open and warm way. I think maybe we're both minorities – both the Jews and ourselves. That's part of the attraction of coming here."
This personal realization underscores why he sees the festival as a community builder, not just a cultural event.
The festival as a community builder
For Kjeldsberg, the festival represents more than music and lectures – it has a function that binds people together.
"The Jewish Cultural Festival represents an important function for our city. A minority that offers itself, opens its doors and allows the population to get to know emotions, atmosphere, food, theater and music."
In this way, the festival becomes a window into a culture that many would otherwise not encounter, and thus a resource for the entire city.
A festival for the whole city
He believes the festival is crucial for building understanding in a time of unrest.
"I am absolutely certain that this festival has opened the ears and eyes of the people of Trondheim. It makes our city richer, and it is more important than ever."
For Kjeldsberg, this year's full halls and engaged audience are the clearest proof that the festival is a success: It gives the minority a voice, the majority a door to enter through – and the city a community to gather in.
Read similar stories
Heading 5
Heading 5