A brand-new commissioned piece just for our young ones! We’re excited to announce that this year’s children's festival will feature a unique commissioned work: Manne ja Mánát, which will premiere on Riddu Riđđu’s smaller stage during Mánáidfestivála on Friday, July 11, 2025! 

Manne is the solo project of composer and producer Herman Rundberg. Originally from Kåfjord, Rundberg is now based in Tromsø. His sea Sámi identity has always been a natural part of his artistic work. In 2023, Manne made a highly successful debut on our main stage, so it felt natural to collaborate on a new project. 

The commissioned piece is titled “Manne ja mánát”, which means “Manne and the kids.” In autumn 2024, Rundberg received the Kardemomme grant from NOPA and the Egner family, and this forms the foundation of the commissioned work, which will culminate in a full album aimed at children and youth. 

Manne himself says that composing music for this age group is especially rewarding, and the opportunity to create a full work rooted in sea Sámi joik is incredibly motivating. In this project, Manne seeks to preserve the traditional while also composing modern joik. He wants to challenge the prevailing idea that there is no joik tradition in sea Sámi communities. For him, it is important to use sea Sámi joik, preserve it, and contribute to its continued development. He aims to give today’s children and youth tools to actively engage in Sámi music and experience the positive aspects of Sámi culture. 

Joining Manne (vocals/joik and keys) on stage are Inger Márjá Eira, Elina Ijäs (vocals/joik), Magnus Tornensis (drums), and Sverre Simonsen (string instruments). 

We are truly looking forward to seeing the children dance and joik along with Manne in front of the stage this summer!