Co-Player of the Year

We are pleased to present Odin Liaklev as this year's co-player in connection with the Olsokdagene 2026.

Since 2008, we have had performers with skills in various genres in the cultural field. This year, the choice fell on a young Verdaling, who has shown us a burning commitment and skills behind the scene, with results that have made actors shine on stage.

Odin is 22 years old and grew up a stone's throw from Stiklestad. In Mogrenda, a spark and commitment was ignited through frequent visits to his grandmother's sewing room, which has given him a love for sewing. For many years, Odin has contributed sewing and knowledge of costumes to various theater productions, both in Verdal theater group, in a theater group in Oslo and in the costume committee in Spelet om Heilag Olav.

"It's a great feeling to get such recognition," says Odin, when we meet him in Oslo for a chat about what it's like to be selected as a co-star. "It was unexpected, and a great feeling to be placed alongside all the other co-stars that I've seen because of their talent," Odin continues, before we hear a little about his future plans.

Now it's studies that matter, and the plan is to work with performing arts, preferably costumes, where he can help develop costumes that strengthen the relationships between actors on stage. In other words, the goal is to earn a secure income, in a culture-based industry with a sustainable approach. In the fall, there will be a job with set design on Love Actually, or rather Kjærleik Faktiskt, which premieres at Edderkoppen Scene, December 2.

Odin is already working with costume consultant, Anette Werenskiold, to find out what he will contribute to the Olsokdagene at Stiklestad. This year he will be our Junior Designer, in a team with Anette. What we can reveal so far is that we will meet Odin at the opening event in Stiklestad Church, Friday 24th July, and in the Play about St. Olav.

We are really looking forward to getting to know Odin and his creative abilities better.

The Olympic Games will be held July 24-July 29, 2026.