Episode 6: Hallgrim Hansegård - Movement from the North, heritage of dance

The Nordics Unveiled

Hallgrim Hansegård has truly made a name with bringing the rich traditional folk dance 'halling' to the global audiences, both through live performances, TV productions and even video games. Known for his innovative and playful dance projects, Hallgrim is continuously breaking physical, psychological and cultural barriers. His projects had been performed in more than 30 countries and have reached over 100 million views on YouTube. Most interestingly, his performance has also been censored by Catholic Church in Italy. Hallgrim has in 2006 founded his own dance company FRIKAR, artistically leading a space where Norwegian traditional folk dance and other sub-cultures within dance community can experiment, develop and nurture the heritage by sharing it to the future generations.

"In the Nordic countries we share a common heritage of social dances, with a lot of whirling in a couple formation. There is a common use of circle dances, but Halling is kind of different, almost a 'Flamingo dance of the Nordics'. ... I tend to disagree from the majority of dances who believe Halling is a male dance, as there is several written sources from 1700 about high-quality female dancers."
Hallgrim Hansegård, The Nordics Unveiled

"It is both interesting and strange that we have such big regional differences. Even in the mood with music and dance. In the Southern part of Norway they are known for a more dark mood, heaviness in the dance. And in Valdres, most of Hallings are pretty happy and light, and our Springar is the most leaning forward, which is really good for the trance dancing."
Hallgrim Hansegård, The Nordics Unveiled

More information about Hallgrim Hansegård and his work with FRIKAR work on the following link.