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Video 2025

Kent Ranum: The festival that matters to the whole city

Mayor Kent Ranum shares his reflections on why the Jewish Cultural Festival is not only important to him personally, but to all of Trondheim – as a celebration of community, diversity and openness.

Daniel Johansen: From St. Petersburg to Nerbyen

A bomb in St. Petersburg in 1881 triggered pogroms that forced many Jews to flee. Historian Daniel Johansen explains how Trondheim became a new home – and how Jewish families helped shape Nerbyen and the city's trade.

Øyvind Brandtzæg: Theatre that engages

Director Øyvind Brandtzæg shares how the performance "Nerbyen - a trip into history" invites the audience into the story through music, humor and strong scenes - to create real engagement.

Terje Bratberg: The story that binds us together

City historian Terje Bratberg explains why the history of minorities is crucial to understanding the city. He believes the Jewish Cultural Festival is essential for broadening our perspectives.

Daniel Johansen: The city walk as living history

Historian Daniel Johansen shows how the city walk "Nerbyen - a trip to history" tells about immigration, trade and life in Trondheim's Jewish quarter - a walking family and local history.

Yngve Brox on the festival's importance

Chairman Yngve Brox explains why he is proud of 15 years of the Jewish Cultural Festival, and how the festival enriches the city by showcasing Jewish culture and diversity.

Helene Don Lind: Dance, community and openness

Helene Don Lind describes the festival as a warm and safe meeting place with music, dance and international stars – and a place that contributes to understanding, openness and community.

David Krakauer: Music as an Open Door

World-renowned clarinetist David Krakauer sees music as an open door to dialogue, tolerance, and community. He shares why art and festivals are essential to keeping barbarism at bay.

Kent Ranum: Openness as an antidote to prejudice

Mayor Kent Ranum believes the Jewish Cultural Festival is a prime example of openness – a festival that builds community, creates awareness and helps combat hatred and anti-Semitism.

Natali Garner on Basic Stitch

The performance "Basic Stitch" is based on the textile industry in Trondheim, run by Jewish families. Natali Garner tells how clothes, memories and crafts carry stories that provide new perspectives on both fashion and city history.

Leoni Abrahamsen opens the festival with Tjuvstart

Leoni Abrahamsen led this year's traditional Shabbat evening - with klezmer music, stories and a festive meal from Jewish cuisine.

Rita thanks the audience and volunteers

After 15 years of festival, Rita shares her gratitude to the audience, partners and volunteers – without you there would be no festival.

Rita about the festival's 15th anniversary

A personal look back at the journey from the idea in Krakow to 15 years of Jewish culture in Trondheim – and an invitation to the year's final performances.

Rita about moving the festival to the city

Festival director Rita Abrahamsen explains why JKFest is also being added to the city's stages – this year with Basic Stitch at Trøndelag Teater and "Nerbyen - a trip to history".

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