Norwegian Arts Company Verdensteatret Closes After 40 Years Due to Funding Rejections

Verdensteatret, a celebrated Norwegian performing arts company, announced it will shut down after four decades, following another rejection from the Arts Council Norway. The company, established in 1986, has been known for its innovative, interdisciplinary, and technologically advanced performances, combining stage art, visuals, sound, and mechanical sculptures. It has received prestigious awards, including the Heddaprisen and the American Bessie Award. Verdensteatret was excluded from the Arts Council's funding scheme for established companies last year, and a recent application for renewed support was also denied. Co-founder Asle Nilsen stated that the company cannot endure another fight to secure funding for just one more year. The company's final project will be the installation "Lucida" at the Dikemark Festival in Asker. Therese Bjørneboe, editor of the Shakespeare journal, criticized the government's stance, calling it "worrying" that the ministry is unwilling to expand the existing funding programs. She believes Verdensteatret has contributed significantly to a "Norwegian golden age" in independent performing arts. State Secretary Erlend Hanstveit responded that the government has increased the cultural fund by over 150 million kroner, totaling more than 1 billion kroner. However, he emphasized that the Arts Council itself is responsible for the allocation of these funds.

“

We cannot endure another fight and another round with the politicians in the hope of being saved for one more year.