The stage is set for a chilling exploration of childhood fears with “De som aldrig dör” (Those Who Never Die), a new play by Norwegian dramatist Eirik Fauske. Premiering on March 10th in Norberg, Sweden, this production from Riksteatern Barn & Unga promises a blend of humor and suspense as it delves into the anxieties of contemporary children, grappling with themes of climate change, conflict, and disaster. The play, translated into Swedish by Helena Fagertun, centers around three children lost in a forest, confronting not only the external challenges of their surroundings but likewise the internal landscape of their own imaginations and anxieties. This production arrives at a time when understanding and addressing children’s emotional wellbeing is increasingly crucial, and the play aims to provide a space for acknowledging and processing those feelings.
Directed by Nora Nilsson, who recently received acclaim for her staging of August Strindberg’s Dödsdansen (Dance of Death) with Riksteatern in autumn 2025, “De som aldrig dör” builds upon Fauske’s established reputation for thought-provoking children’s theatre. His previous work, Hundratals barn i vild kamp (Hundreds of Children in Wild Combat), which premiered in spring 2024, similarly explored complex themes through a child’s perspective. Nilsson emphasizes the play’s focus on the power of imagination and the difficulty of articulating fear, particularly when adults struggle to provide explanations. The production seeks to create a safe space for children to confront their anxieties, recognizing that these feelings are often linked to experiences and concerns that are difficult to verbalize. The play’s exploration of these themes is particularly relevant in a world where children are increasingly exposed to global crises through news and media.
A Journey into the Unknown: The Narrative of “De som aldrig dör”
The narrative unfolds as three children venture along a narrow path in a forest bordering a fjord. The initial ambiguity – are they on a school trip? Where are the adults? – immediately establishes a sense of unease. As a dense fog rolls in and strange sounds echo through the trees, the children’s search for a meeting point becomes increasingly disorienting. The play draws on the classic trope of the lost children in the woods, but with a contemporary twist, hinting at a past tragedy – a class that disappeared ten years ago, or perhaps a thousand. This ambiguity between recent and distant history adds to the play’s unsettling atmosphere. The core of the story lies in the children’s attempt to navigate this unsettling environment, to distinguish between reality and imagination, and to confront the “monster” that lurks within the forest. According to Nilsson, the play’s strength lies in its ability to address the unspoken fears that often haunt children, those anxieties that lack easy explanations.
The Creative Team and Cast
Bringing Fauske’s script to life is a talented team of artists. Alongside director Nilsson, the production features set and costume design by Agnes Östergren, mask design by Linda Gonçalves, lighting design by Sofie Gynning Högbom, composition and sound design by Leo Goldmann, and dramaturgy by Ninna Tersman. The cast includes Madeléne Evertsson, Zarah Njoki Nilsson, and Vilgot Paulsen, each tasked with embodying the complexities of their characters as they navigate the unsettling world of the play. The collaborative effort of this artistic team aims to create a visually and aurally immersive experience that amplifies the play’s emotional impact. The production’s commitment to a holistic artistic vision is evident in the careful attention to detail across all design elements.
Riksteatern’s Commitment to Young Audiences
Riksteatern, a national touring theatre company in Sweden, has a long-standing commitment to providing high-quality theatrical experiences for young audiences. Riksteatern Barn & Unga specifically focuses on creating productions that address the concerns and interests of children and young people. Riksteatern’s website details their extensive touring schedule and educational programs. “De som aldrig dör” is part of a broader initiative to engage children in meaningful dialogue about the challenges facing the world today. The play’s tour, spanning from Skellefteå in northern Sweden to Mjölby in the south, ensures accessibility for audiences across the country. A press viewing is scheduled for March 5th in Hallunda, providing an opportunity for critics and media to preview the production before its official premiere.
Addressing Contemporary Anxieties in Children’s Theatre
The choice to stage “De som aldrig dör” now reflects a growing awareness of the emotional toll that global events are taking on children. Climate anxiety, geopolitical instability, and the constant stream of negative news can contribute to feelings of fear and helplessness. The play acknowledges these anxieties, offering a space for children to explore them through the lens of a fictional narrative. By presenting these issues in a theatrical context, the production aims to empower children to articulate their feelings and develop coping mechanisms. The play’s emphasis on the importance of acknowledging and validating children’s fears is a key element of its therapeutic potential. The production’s creators hope that “De som aldrig dör” will spark conversations between children, parents, and educators about the challenges facing the world and the importance of emotional wellbeing.
The play’s exploration of the power of imagination is also particularly relevant in a digital age, where children are often bombarded with information and stimuli. “De som aldrig dör” encourages children to tap into their own creativity and resourcefulness as they navigate the uncertainties of the world around them. The forest setting itself serves as a metaphor for the complexities of the human psyche, a place where both beauty and danger coexist. By embracing the ambiguity and uncertainty of the narrative, the play invites audiences to engage in a process of self-discovery and emotional exploration. The production’s success will likely hinge on its ability to strike a delicate balance between suspense and sensitivity, offering a compelling theatrical experience that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.
The premiere of “De som aldrig dör” on March 10th in Norberg marks the beginning of a nationwide tour that will bring this important story to audiences across Sweden. The play’s exploration of childhood fears and its commitment to addressing contemporary anxieties make it a timely and relevant addition to the landscape of children’s theatre. The next confirmed event is the press viewing on March 5th in Hallunda, offering a first glimpse into the world of the play. Readers interested in learning more about Riksteatern Barn & Unga and their upcoming productions are encouraged to visit their website at www.riksteatern.se. We invite you to share your thoughts on the importance of addressing children’s emotional wellbeing in the comments below.
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