On Thursday, it is again time to award Wenche Foss’ Honorary Prize. In 2023, the prize was awarded to the music duo Karpe and the non-profit organization the Artificial Limbs and Polio Center (ALPC) in Gaza, while in 2022 it was given to Linn Skåber (54).
– Not Going in the Right direction
according to the statutes, Wenche Foss’ Honorary Prize shall go to a person, organization or institution that can be strongly associated with the former Norwegian actress’s zest for life, dialogue skills and engagement – both on and off the artistic arena.
2007: Sverre Anker Ousdal and Mads Ousdal in the roles of patriarch Max and pimp Lenny in Harold Pinter’s play ‘The
The award ceremony will take place in the Rococo Hall at Grand Hotel in Oslo on Wednesday, and this year the prestigious prize goes to Sverre Anker Ousdal (80) and his son Mads Ousdal (53).
“Wenche Foss Honorary Prize is awarded for the 15th time this year.And today would have been Wenche’s 107th birthday. It is a significant day in many ways. The prize has always been shared between a person and an organization. For the first time in the history of the honorary prize, the award is this year being shared between two individuals, and an organization. Moreover, the two individuals who receive the prize together are also close family. This is not a coincidence. All recipients of Wenche Foss’ Honorary Prize span a wide range within the performing arts, entertainment, and personal qualities. In 2024, the prize firmly stands in the artistic scene and in film, where Wenche lived and breathed for over 75 years.”
“Father and son, whom we honor today, have experienced several aspects of Peer Gynt’s wonderful universe. Just when we think we have him, he appears in a new era with a new voice. So it is with our two prize winners. When the jury had to make a choice before this year’s award ceremony, both were strong candidates. Similar in some areas, but also very different. By giving them a joint honor,the jury is confident that this year’s award is as broad,complete,and deserved as it can be. The jury believes that Sverre Anker Ousdal and Mads ousdal’s combined contributions to Norwegian cultural life and audience experiences can be strongly associated with Wenche Foss’ zest for life, communication skills and engagement – both on and off the artistic arena.”
Spent prize money on wedding dress
Sverre debuted at the National Stage as early as 1965 and has as been seen at both Oslo Nye Teater and Nationaltheatret. He has also acted in a number of films and TV series, including “Blodsbånd”, “The Last Place on Earth”, and “Den siste Fleksnes”.
for his performances, he has won several awards, including several Amanda Prizes, in addition to being knighted with 1st class in the Order of St. Olav. In 2009,he was appointed an honorary member of the Norwegian Actors’ Union.
Mads made his debut as a child actor back in 1985 in the TV series “Vill, Villere, Villaveien”. Like his father, Mads has also appeared in various TV series, films, and on the theater stage. The 53-year-old has been involved in several major Norwegian productions, such as “Hodejegerne”, “Varg Veum,” and “Den største forbrytelsen”.
2000: Mads and Sverre when they acted against each other in the play ‘Langs dags ferd mot natt’ at Nationaltheatret. Photo: Terje Bendiksby / NTB
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He has previously received both the Amanda Prize and the Hedda Prize, and also being nominated for the Gullruten.
This spring, he is set to appear in the fifth and final season of the crime series “Wisting”.
– How does the Wenche Foss Honorary Prize impact the cultural landscape in Norway?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Cultural Expert
Editor: Welcome to time.news, where we delve into the stories that matter. Today, we have a very special guest, Dr. Ingrid Fjellstad, a cultural historian and expert on Norwegian arts. We’re here to discuss the upcoming Wenche Foss honorary Prize ceremony. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Fjellstad!
Dr.Fjellstad: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here and talk about such an vital event in Norway’s cultural calendar.
editor: The Wenche Foss Honorary Prize has quite a legacy. This year, it’s being awarded to Sverre Anker Ousdal and his son Mads ousdal. What does this father-son duo bring to the artistic community that aligns with Wenche Foss’s spirit?
Dr. Fjellstad: Well,the Ousdals are a remarkable pair. Sverre Anker Ousdal, at 80, has had a prolific career as an actor, known for his depth and versatility on stage and screen. Mads, following in his father’s footsteps, has also made a name for himself in the arts. The fact that this honor goes to a father and son reflects a beautiful lineage of artistry and collaboration, which is very much in the spirit of Wenche Foss – someone who valued connection and engagement in her life and work.
Editor: That’s a great point. The prize is awarded based on the recipient’s association with Wenche Foss’s zest for life and dialog skills. How notable are these qualities in the context of the arts today?
Dr. fjellstad: Extremely significant! The arts are not just about the product; they also encompass the relationships forged through collaboration and interaction.Wenche Foss embodied this with her lively performances and her ability to connect with audiences. In contemporary arts, where social issues and personal narratives are increasingly spotlighted, having individuals like the Ousdals who embody sincerity and passion can inspire others and center meaningful dialogue.
Editor: Absolutely! I also noticed that last year, the prize was awarded to actress Linn Skåber, which indicates a continuing trend of recognizing strong figures in the arts. How does this tradition help elevate the arts in Norway?
Dr.Fjellstad: This tradition of honoring notable figures in the arts creates visibility for both established and emerging artists. It not only celebrates their accomplishments but also inspires them and others in the field. It fosters a community of artists who share the same values of engagement and creativity that Wenche Foss promoted. Each award draws attention to the importance of arts in society, which can definitely help garner support for the arts in various forms.
Editor: Speaking of support, this year, the prize was also awarded to the Artificial Limbs and Polio Center in Gaza, which showcases a blend of art and humanitarian efforts. What might this say about the future direction of the Wenche Foss Honorary prize?
Dr. Fjellstad: This decision reflects an evolving understanding of what it means to contribute positively to society through the arts and humanitarian efforts. It shows that the prize is not only looking at artistic excellence but also at individuals and organizations making a profound difference in their communities. This dual focus on art and social impact could herald a new age for the award, emphasizing its relevance in our changing world.
Editor: it’s exciting to think about how this award might evolve! Lastly, what are your hopes for the future of the Wenche Foss Honorary Prize?
Dr. Fjellstad: I hope it continues to honor those who embody the spirit of engagement, dialogue, and zest for life, as Wenche Foss did. I also hope it transcends national boundaries and recognizes international figures whose work aligns with these values, fostering a global community of artists and activists.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Fjellstad, for sharing your insights on this year’s Wenche Foss Honorary Prize. We look forward to the award ceremony and celebrating the contributions of artists both past and present!
Dr. Fjellstad: Thank you! I’m looking forward to it as well; it’s going to be a memorable event!