"We have maintained continuity over time, and it is now paying off", says Kajza Rauhala, operations manager and artistic director at Skellefteå Dance & Ballet Association.
Throughout November, Skellefteå has been immersed in the "Dans i Novembermörkret” (Dance in November Darkness) festival, featuring a diverse range of dance performances. This week, the festival culminates in a special week-long celebration, offering an even wider selection of shows.
As part of the closing week, Skellefteå Dans & Balett presented performances at Nordanå, showcasing the talent of their various dance groups. The six performances were incredibly popular, with nearly 3,000 tickets selling out within minutes.
– Our young dancers are incredibly dedicated, and there's a huge audience eager to experience their performances during ”Dans i Novembermörkret." This enthusiasm from both dedicated fans of dance and curious newcomers highlights the growing interest in dance," says Kajza Rauhala, director of operations and artistic director.
The rush for seats also had a downside, as some people were frustrated by not having enough time to secure tickets. To address this, the association also sold tickets for the six dress rehearsals.
– We understand that securing tickets was stressful, and we take that feedback seriously. We’ve made changes before to better meet demand and will continue to evaluate ways to improve for future performances.
This strong demand reflects the growing interest in dance. Kajza Rauhala notes that the association is expanding steadily, with a record 900 active dancers, and she attributes this growth to a strong tradition and continued engagement.
– We have a strong dance tradition in Skellefteå. Many people who have danced with the association over the years are now returning and getting involved again. This continuity over time is now paying off, and it’s key to our success.
One example is Malin Morin, who trained as a dance teacher at Luleå University of Technology, worked as a show artist, and taught dance in Stockholm. Another is Katja Palmgren, who studied flamenco at Amor De Dios in Madrid and spent a year at Dance Space Inc. in New York. She also danced professionally with the jazz company Comanpani Q.
– Our extensive knowledge, combined with a large team of dance teachers, ensures that we maintain high standards and are able to offer numerous courses. Without enough teachers, we would face limitations.
After the Nordanå weekend, the dance-filled week continues with workshops, exhibitions, and performances throughout Skellefteå.
Sitting Dance
A workshop led by Valeria Tchelak Möller, an experienced instructor trained in Dance for Parkinson’s. This class is accessible to everyone, from those who are fit, to those who are not so mobile, and is open to anyone curious about sitting dance.
When: Tuesday 26 November, 13:00 - 14:00
Where: Nordanå Foyer
LIMINAL SPACES – Process Display (Dance & Music)
An improvised performance by dance artist Janne Aspvik and sound artist Markku Essel, exploring the often-overlooked transitional spaces.
When: Tuesday 26 November, 16:00 - 16:30
Where: Citykompaniet
Mikro Makro – After School Performance
A magical performance by Nomodaco, designed for both children and adults, exploring life and the universe in a simple, captivating way. The performance is followed by short inspirational videos and music for dancing.
When: Tuesday 26 November, 18:00
Where: Hallen, Nordanå
Workshop – Floorwork, Acro & Improvisation
A dynamic workshop focused on floor technique with acrobatic elements. Participants will explore movement close to the floor, developing body awareness through flexibility, strength, and control.
When: Tuesday 26 November, 19:00 - 20:30
Where: Brunnsteatern, Nordlandergatan 1
Workshop – Dance Film
A short, intensive session where participants co-create and dance in a film.
When: Wednesday 27 November
Where: Brunnsteaterns Danssal, Nordlandergatan 1
SKELLGROOVE – Jam & Battle
A Jam & Battle for breakdancers and freestyle dancers. Come cheer or join in!
When: Wednesday 27 November, 18:00 - 19:30
Where: Hallen, Nordanå
The Nutcracker with Classical Ukrainian Etoile Ballet
A ballet performance for both young and adult audiences, presented by the Norwegian organisation "Kultur for Folket" to support Ukrainian classical ballet art and artists.
When: Wednesday 27 November, 19:00
Where: Sara kulturhus
Workshop – Dancing Colors
A dance workshop for children where they explore dancing in various colours and the moods they evoke, using shawls and other props.
When: Thursday 28 November, 17:00 - 17:45
Where: Brunnsteaterns Danssal, Nordlandergatan 1
Spanish Evening – Dance Performance, Workshop & Mingling
An evening of flamenco, with a performance followed by a short workshop where participants can try flamenco.
When: Friday 29 November, 18:00
Where: Hallen, Nordanå
Post Wedding Depression – Pop-up Dance Performance
A performance blending bull rushes, postmodern dance, and lively disco solos, exploring themes of femininity and the dream of being a bride.
When: Saturday 30 November, 12:30 (Citykompaniet) & 14:00 (City Library, Sara kulturhus)
Facade Dance – The Carrier / Bäraren
The return of the acclaimed dance work, "The Carrier," displayed on the facades of Sara kulturhus. This performance will take place at night, offering a magical experience.
When: Sunday 1 December, 15:30
Where: Sara kulturhus (Best viewed from Guldtorget)
Source: Visit Skellefteå