Dance Dance Dance

Step into the beat of a mazurka, Viennese waltz, tango, or swing in a vibrant medley of captivating rhythms and playful dance steps.

Music and dance have always held a special place in human life, crossing cultures and social classes. From rural villages to bustling cities, people have danced for generations. Norway’s oldest traditional couple dances, known as bygdedans, are a cornerstone of the country’s intangible cultural heritage. Here, learning wasn’t formalized – you picked up the steps from others.

Other styles, often influenced by continental trends, were taught more formally. Foreign influences made their way to Norway, adapted locally, and sometimes developed a distinctly Norwegian flavor. In this exhibition, you’ll discover the vibrant dance communities of Lillehammer and Gudbrandsdalen, featuring groups like Bergs Danseskole, Lillehammer Swingklubb, Tango Banco, Lillehammer Dansesenter, Lillehammer Seniordans, Kulturhjerte, Loftet Dansestudio, and the local folk dance scene.

"See, Grandma, we’re dancing together"

A unique feature of the exhibition is "Se bestemor, vi danser sammen" (See, Grandma, we're dancing together") – a display within the main showcase. This collaborative effort with the Norwegian Center for Folk Music and Folk Dance is supported by Sparebankstiftelsen DNB, Sparebankstiftelsen SMN, and UNESCO Norway. Part of the “Museene danser” project, it has created meaningful spaces to preserve and pass on the art of dance to future generations.

– Imagine meeting someone where words aren’t needed, coming close, holding someone you’ve never met before. Smelling the scent of hair on a stranger’s head. Moving together to a shared rhythm, where time stands still. Savoring the music and feeling two souls merge into one.
Excerpt from Martin Myhr’s “Meeting” in "See, Grandma, we’re dancing together"

Foto: Ukjent. Privat eie.

Collaborating partner: