Elisabeth Håseth Klæbo, widely recognized as the supportive mother behind the phenomenal success of cross-country skier Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, has embarked on a significant new professional chapter. She has been appointed as the managing director of the Nye Hjorten Teater, a recently established theatrical venue in Trondheim, effective June 1st. This appointment marks a substantial shift from her long-standing role within Team Klæbo, where she has been an instrumental figure in her son’s illustrious career.
The Nye Hjorten Teater, a project spearheaded by prominent businessman Ole Robert Reitan, officially opened its doors on January 15, 2025. Its ambitious mission is to deliver "five-star theatre experiences to the general public – right in the heart of Trondheim." The theatre’s website has warmly welcomed its new executive, stating, "We warmly welcome our new managing director Elisabeth Håseth Klæbo to Nye Hjorten Teater! She took up her position on June 1st, and we are so pleased that it is precisely Elisabeth who will be at the helm as we continue our adventurous theatrical voyage."
The theatre’s statement further elaborated on Mrs. Klæbo’s qualifications: "Elisabeth brings with her solid experience from both the arts and business sectors, with roles such as board member of TrondheimSolistene, property manager at E C Dahls Eiendom, and general manager for Kjæpmannsgata Ung Kunst (K.U.K.). In addition, she possesses the heart, passion, and intellect required to take Nye Hjorten Teater to new heights!"
Ole Robert Reitan’s Vision for a Cultural Hub
The establishment of Nye Hjorten Teater is deeply rooted in the vision of Ole Robert Reitan, a key figure in Norwegian business and a scion of the Reitan family, known for its extensive retail and logistics empire. Reitan has long harbored a dream of establishing a new, accessible theatre in his hometown of Trondheim. The Reitan family’s considerable financial resources have been instrumental in bringing this ambitious project to fruition. The connection between the Reitan Group and the Klæbo family is also noteworthy; Johannes Høsflot Klæbo holds a sponsorship agreement with Uno-X Mobility, a company that falls under the umbrella of the Reitan Group. This existing relationship likely facilitated the pathway for Elisabeth Klæbo’s appointment.
The Reitan Group’s investment in sports extends beyond cross-country skiing, notably including significant financial backing for the Uno-X Mobility cycling team, which has recently participated in the Tour de France for the second time. This demonstrates the group’s commitment to supporting high-profile ventures and athletes.
The development of Nye Hjorten Teater progressed with remarkable speed. Once the building site and architectural plans were secured, the creative trio of Mads Bones, Kyrre Havdal, and Olve Løseth became integral to the project. Their involvement culminated in the formation of the operating company, Nye Hjorten Teater AS, a partnership between Reitan and the creative team. The theatre’s stated objective is to offer "Saturday all week long," aiming to provide a welcome escape from everyday life with world-class entertainment.
Elisabeth Klæbo’s Background and the "Team Klæbo" Influence
Elisabeth Håseth Klæbo’s career trajectory has been closely intertwined with her son’s ascent to global stardom in cross-country skiing. While not a public figure in the traditional sense, her role behind the scenes has been widely acknowledged. She has been a constant presence, offering support and guidance, and was a foundational element of what is often referred to as "Team Klæbo." This informal but highly effective support system has been credited with fostering the disciplined environment and unwavering focus that have characterized Johannes Høsflot Klæbo’s remarkable achievements.
Her prior professional experiences, as highlighted by the theatre, demonstrate a diverse skillset relevant to managing a complex cultural institution. Her roles as a board member for the TrondheimSolistene, a renowned chamber orchestra, indicate an understanding of artistic governance and the operational demands of cultural organizations. Her experience as a property manager at E C Dahls Eiendom suggests a grasp of real estate management and development, crucial for maintaining and potentially expanding a theatre’s physical infrastructure. Furthermore, her tenure as general manager for Kjæpmannsgata Ung Kunst (K.U.K.) signifies direct experience in leadership within the arts sector, likely involving programming, administration, and public engagement.
The transition from the high-pressure, results-driven world of elite sports management to the creative and audience-focused domain of theatre direction presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Mrs. Klæbo’s established ability to navigate complex environments, manage stakeholders, and foster success suggests she is well-equipped for this new role.
The Nye Hjorten Teater Project: A Timeline and Context
The genesis of Nye Hjorten Teater can be traced back to Ole Robert Reitan’s long-held aspiration. While a precise start date for the conceptualization phase is not publicly detailed, the project gained significant momentum with the securing of a suitable location and the engagement of architects. The formal establishment of the operating company, Nye Hjorten Teater AS, marked a critical milestone, signaling the transition from a dream to a concrete venture. The theatre’s official opening on January 15, 2025, represents the culmination of this development phase, ushering in its operational era.
The theatre’s location in the heart of Trondheim is strategic, aiming to be easily accessible to a broad audience. The concept of offering "five-star theatre experiences" suggests a commitment to high production values, compelling artistic content, and excellent customer service. This ambition positions Nye Hjorten Teater as a significant cultural player within the region.
The partnership between Ole Robert Reitan and the creative trio of Bones, Havdal, and Løseth is central to the theatre’s identity. This collaboration brings together financial backing and entrepreneurial drive with artistic vision and production expertise. The creative team is known for their innovative approaches to theatre and their ability to connect with audiences. Their involvement suggests that Nye Hjorten Teater will likely feature a diverse and engaging program.
Potential Implications and Broader Impact
Elisabeth Håseth Klæbo’s appointment as managing director of Nye Hjorten Teater is likely to have several ripple effects. Firstly, it brings a high-profile individual, albeit indirectly through her familial connection, to the forefront of the Trondheim arts scene. This can generate significant public interest and potentially attract a wider audience to the theatre. Her proven ability to manage and support a highly successful individual suggests she possesses strong organizational and strategic skills that will be transferable to the theatre’s operations.
Secondly, her background within "Team Klæbo" implies an understanding of building and sustaining high-performing teams, fostering dedication, and managing resources effectively. These are all crucial attributes for the successful leadership of a new cultural institution. The theatre’s success will depend not only on its artistic programming but also on its financial stability, operational efficiency, and audience engagement, areas where Mrs. Klæbo’s experience could prove invaluable.
The financial backing from the Reitan Group, coupled with Mrs. Klæbo’s leadership, signals a strong commitment to the long-term viability of Nye Hjorten Teater. This investment in local culture can have a positive impact on Trondheim’s cultural landscape, potentially creating new employment opportunities within the arts sector and contributing to the city’s appeal as a cultural destination.
The theatre’s stated goal of providing "Saturday all week long" suggests a programming strategy focused on entertainment, escapism, and a high-quality visitor experience. This approach aims to appeal to a broad demographic, moving beyond traditional theatre-goers to attract a more diverse audience. Mrs. Klæbo’s leadership will be crucial in translating this vision into tangible programming and operational excellence.
As Nye Hjorten Teater embarks on its journey under new management, the eyes of the arts community and the public will be watching. Elisabeth Håseth Klæbo’s transition from the world of elite sports support to the directorship of a significant cultural venture represents a compelling narrative of professional evolution and a testament to the diverse talents that can emerge from supporting roles. Her leadership is poised to shape the future of theatre in Trondheim, bringing a unique blend of business acumen and an understanding of dedication and success to this exciting new endeavor.
