About the artist
Elle Sofe Company was established in 2022 as a continuation of the work of choreographer, director and film-maker Elle Sofe Sara who has been a full time artist since 2007.
While the company’s base is Sámi culture the artistic work touches upon human aspects and global themes such as belonging, togetherness, nature and ancestral knowledge. The company aims to create unique experiences of dance, yoik (Sámi traditional song) and music that make an imprint and give new perspectives for the audience. We truly believe that art can change the world for the better by touching people in unexpected ways on a deep personal level, that again can change societal structures.
In 2021 Sara premiered the performance Vástádus eana – The answer is land which has toured extensively worldwide since and received the Critics award for dance in Norway in 2022 with numerous excellent critics. In 2023 she choreographed BIRGET; ways to deal, ways to heal for Carte Blanche dance company. This performance also received the critics award and is currently touring. Currently Sara is developing her first feature film ÁRRU, which is a yoik musical about abuse.
Elle Sofe Company wishes to expand and develop further, we wish to reach people beyond borders and encounter meetings with a diversity of people, cultures and lifestyles. We strive to be innovative, kindhearted and unifying.
ESC received funding from 2023- 2026 from the Norwegian Arts Council which allowed us to professionalize the structure and employ producer Maiken Garder. The company has two full time employees while the rest are hired for projects and tours. The administration is based in Guovdageaidnu and Hammerfest in Northern Norway, while the touring team is based all around Norway and Northern Finland. We rehearse in spaces available and in collaboration with institutions and local organizations.
