A young person's experience on Kloden teater

October 31, 2023

- After the work week at Kloden teater , I see that theater involves many more than actors and directors. Many people are involved and work together towards a fantastic production.

Earlier this year, Mathilde Dorthea Landlie (14) from Bergen, then a 9th grader and internship student at Kloden teater, gained a broad insight into the work that goes into a theater production. In this interview, she shares her experience of finding her dream location for the work week and how the experience has shaped her view of theater as an inclusive and creative arena for all involved.

How did you come across Kloden teater?

- My mom found Kloden teater through Instagram and thought it was perfect for me, which it turned out to be; with theater, creativity and creation. 

What significance does theater have for you? Is it something you do in your spare time, for example?

- "I take stage and hall as electives at school, and I often see performances in my spare time. I think theater is absolutely fantastic, and I love being present, both in the hall and on stage. 

How did you find working at Kloden teater? Was it what you expected, or were there any surprises?

- Everyone at Kloden teater was welcoming and friendly, and through a conversation at the start of the week we put together a plan and different goals about what I could do. I did two interviews and got to work a lot independently, which I really enjoyed. I received constant follow-up and was well looked after. Before the work week, I was expecting a lot more action on stage, but through Kloden teater I got an insight into everything that goes on behind a big production; all the different roles and creative processes. I had a lot of fun and learned a lot of new things about theater and stage production!

During the work week, you worked on our new EU project, Performing arts as the Third place for the young audience, where we explore how theater can become "a third place", outside of home and school, where young people can feel at home and represented. What is a third place for you?

- Writing is my third place, I think. It's where I'm free to create and express myself. In writing, there are no rules and anything is possible. 

What do you think is important for Kloden teater to focus on in order to become a third place for young people?

- "I think it's important to attract young people. To show them that theater is for everyone, not just for those who like to be in the spotlight. 

What was it like to spend a week working at Kloden teater, versus spending a week at school?

- At Kloden teater , I was given a lot of control and freedom to create. I really enjoyed this, and I definitely prefer it to a normal school week. It was also nice to be around like-minded people. I finally got to talk to other people who like to create! I felt at home in a whole new way. There was also such a good community there. I remember the lunch at Kloden teater, where there was a quiz, delicious food and a good atmosphere. The conversations flowed around the table and I felt like I slipped right in. 

What do you dream of working with in the long term?

- Something creative, preferably in drama. After the work week at Kloden teater , I see that theater involves many more than actors and directors. Everyone is involved and works together towards a fantastic production. I want to be part of that. 

Do you have any advice for others who are going to have a working week, in terms of how they should go about finding a relevant workplace and how they should approach the tasks?

- The work week is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience and insight into working life, so I think it's important to choose something that interests you. We found Kloden teater through social media, and I think more people can find jobs in the same way. Many people I know also got jobs with family or family friends. When it comes to taking on the tasks, I think motivation, good supervisors and a good working environment are key. This certainly has Kloden teater, and I highly recommend them to anyone who likes theater and has a work week!