With great sadness, we received the news that Sven Åge Birkeland passed away on 18 July.

Even though Sven Åge was seriously ill, he was passionately committed to his work as theater director of BIT Teatergarasjen until the end.

For many years, Sven Åge and BIT have been a good and invaluable conversation, sparring, and collaboration partner for Carte Blanche. As a person, Sven Åge was both open and determined, generous and inclusive. As a theater director, he has opened doors, challenged, and expanded the understanding of what performing arts can be.

Establishing the performing arts festivals Meteor and Oktoberdans created a network and ripple effects that make Bergen a better city to live and create in – also for a national company such as Carte Blanche. This energetic collaboration will be manifested and continued in the Sentralbadet Scenekunsthus, where Carte Blanche and BIT Teatergarasjen will live and create together.

Sven Åge worked tirelessly to establish the Sentralbadet Scenekunsthus.
It is incredibly sad that Sven Åge will not experience its completion, but in his spirit, Sentralbadet will teem with life, openness, and curiosity. A standard-bearer for national and international performing arts in the heart of Bergen. Just like Sven Åge Birkeland.
It is a significant legacy that we will continue to manage, together with BIT Teatergarasjen.

With the passing of Sven Åge, we at Carte Blanche have not only lost a knowledgeable, unifying, and inspiring colleague – we have also lost a close and good friend who passed away far too soon.

We miss you, Sven Åge, and our thoughts now go to those closest to you.

Farewell.