Sat 25 Jul kl 13:00 - 14:30
Storforsen Natural Stage
A Seed Begins to Grow
Skájdde returns to Storforsen in the summer of 2026 with a brand-new large-scale outdoor performance, created especially for the landscape, the light, and the people who gather there.
This year’s production is called Sjaddo—a Lule Sámi word meaning seed. It is a performance about growing together and celebrating the beauty of our differences.
Through the performance, audiences will gain insight into the Sámi creation story and encounter the magical pearls of the Pearl River (Pärlälven) in Jokkmokk.
At Skájdde 2026, this vision comes to life through dance, live music, joik, poetry, circus arts, scenography, and costume design, woven together within the magnificent surroundings of the Storforsen Nature Reserve. Here, nature is not merely a backdrop—it is an active participant. The river, the forest, and the ground beneath your feet all become part of the experience.
As in previous years, Skájdde is more than a single performance. The festival brings back many beloved experiences that visitors return for year after year: intimate gatherings around the fire, art installations in the forest, storytelling for children, movement trails, and moments inviting people of all ages to slow down, listen, and simply be present.
This year’s production is an artistic journey filled with dance, humour, poetry, and warmth. It explores the importance of growing together, reminding us that we need one another—and therefore must care for one another. The performance begins with Sámi creation stories about the Earth, the animals, and humankind, where music and poetry create a powerful atmosphere within the nature reserve.
“I truly look forward to creating this family-friendly festival in Storforsen for yet another year. This is our fifth year, and I feel deeply grateful. Despite the challenges of today’s world, it is important that we continue creating art and spaces filled with love and warmth. I believe our message matters.”
– Liv Aira
“I joined the creative process for Sjaddo a few months ago, when we planted the first seeds of ideas and themes that have now grown into what is becoming a finished performance. Compared to previous productions, Sjaddo embraces more playful elements and uses humour as a contrast to the major existential questions it explores. We follow the Sámi creation story through the eyes of the Creator—eyes filled with curiosity, wonder, playfulness, and love.
Beyond sharing Sámi stories about the world we live in, Sjaddo feels like a bright performance for dark times. It reminds us that the small things we do matter in the bigger picture, and that our lives have meaning and purpose. It is a heartfelt performance for both adults and children.
As a stage poet living in Vidsel, it is rare that I can cycle to work. I grew up in the Storforsen area, and it has always been a deeply important place for me. To create boundary-crossing performing arts here—together with so many talented dancers, musicians, artists, and performers—is an experience that has helped me grow both as an artist and as a person. It is almost impossible to put into words, even though words are the very foundation of my profession.”
– Josefin Şîlan Karlsson
The standard ticket price is SEK 400, but visitors experiencing financial difficulties are welcome to choose the amount they can afford to pay.
Two hours before and after each main performance, visitors can enjoy circus, theatre, performance art, and many other festival activities.
When: Saturday–Sunday, 25–26 July 2026
Where: Storforsen Nature Reserve, Vidsel, Norrbotten
Tickets: Admission includes access to all daytime festival activities and performances.
