Sven Åge Birkeland was the artistic and managing director of Norway's oldest and most prestigious international theatre, BIT Teatergarasjen, the dance biennial Oktoberdans and the theatre biennial Meteor. In addition, he was sought after as a curator and advisor for programs of festivals and venues, within Norway as well as internationally. In that capacity he influenced the curatorial processes and development of many performing arts programs across the globe with his distinct vision, taste and unique sense for new artistic potential.
His work for the Norwegian performing arts scene was invaluable, before anyone else opening up a window – via BIT Teatergarasjen, for Norwegian artistic innovators – to expose their work to the world.
Sven passed away in 2022 after two years of fighting cancer.