The new Head of Administration will play a central role in the further development of True Northern Arts Festival, joining the organisation at a time when the framework for next year’s festival is being shaped.
“It is with great enthusiasm that I step into this role. The festival is a powerful cultural institution with great significance for the region, and I look forward to helping strengthen and further develop the organisation together with the highly skilled team in Harstad. With my background in political work and strategic management, I hope to bring new perspectives and energy to an exciting phase,” says Karin Eriksen.
Her predecessor, Hilde Høyvåg, warmly welcomes her into the organisation.
“After 28 years in this role, it means a great deal to see True Northern Arts Festival bring such a competent and experienced person into the position. Karin comes across as a confident and decisive leader,” says Høyvåg.
Festival Director Susanne Næss Nielsen is very pleased with the appointment.
“We are very happy to have Karin on the team. She has considerable expertise and capacity, and we look forward to developing the festival further with her on board,” says Nielsen.
Eriksen takes up the position on 1 November, at a time when True Northern Arts Festival is in an important phase of development.
“In a phase like this, it is valuable to bring in fresh perspectives on the organisation. Karin will strengthen our management capacity and contribute important expertise in strategic governance, administration and organisational development,” says Nielsen.
As Head of Administration, Eriksen will be responsible for key administrative functions and will play an important role in preparing True Northern Arts Festival for the needs of the future.
True Northern Arts Festival was first held in Harstad in 1965. Each year, during the summer solstice in June, we host an eight-day international arts festival dedicated to music, theatre, dance and visual art.
In 2026, True Northern Arts Festival takes place from 20 to 27 June.