The Drama about St. Olav

Experience a magical journey in history - back to the time the Vikings ruled the land. Experience the battle of Stiklestad and Olav Haraldssond's death up close in "The Drama about St. Olav".

"Spelet om Heilag Olav" is the heart of the “Olsokdagene at Stiklestad” festival, held annually at the end of July. In 2025, the festival runs from July 24th to 29th, with performances of "Spelet om Heilag Olav" on July 25th, 26th, 27th, and 29th.

Spelet om Heilag Olav – A Historical Journey Through Time and Faith
Experience powerful storytelling, passion, and emotion in "Spelet om Heilag Olav," a dramatic retelling of the events that took place at Sul Farm in the days leading up to the pivotal Battle of Stiklestad in 1030. Written by Olav Gullvåg with music by Paul Okkenhaug, this play has, for over 70 years, brought together directors, actors, amateurs, and volunteers who each add their unique touch to this significant tale.

Stiklestad National Culture Center, responsible for the production, is committed to presenting the story in a way that preserves traditions while making it relevant for today’s audience. The play centers around a crucial turning point in Norwegian history—after Olav’s fall, there was no doubt that Norway would remain a unified kingdom. The consequences of 1030 are so profound that in 2030, we will celebrate the thousand-year anniversary of Norway as a nation.

The play offers insight into both personal and grand stories: societal shifts, religious reforms, and mental transformations. On the farm, everyday life collides with politics, and the most vulnerable individual faces the king. Once Olav rides into the farmstead, nothing will ever be the same.

The Nordic Region’s Largest and Oldest Outdoor Theater
The play evolves each year, captivating its audience with its magic. To date, over 800,000 people have witnessed the story of Olav Haraldsson’s fall at Stiklestad, performed on the largest and oldest outdoor stage in the Nordic region. The play has been held at Stiklestad since 1954, with about 700 people involved in and around the production. Professional actors share the stage with amateurs, and the orchestra features both professional musicians and amateurs. Other participants include choirs, extras, and a large group of volunteers. "Spelet om Heilag Olav" is performed on the very site of the battle, Stiklestad, where Olav Haraldsson fell in 1030. This unique setting, combined with nature, history, and talented performers, creates an unparalleled atmosphere. The outdoor amphitheater seats over 5,500 spectators.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
The Viking King
Olav Haraldsson became King of Norway in 1015, aiming to Christianize the country and unite it as a kingdom. His use of power led to an alliance of nobles with the Danish king, and Olav was exiled in 1028. He tried to regain the throne but was killed at the Battle of Stiklestad on July 29, 1030.

The Saint King
After the battle, Olav’s body was traditionally taken to Nidaros (Trondheim) and buried by the river Nidelva. Soon, stories of miracles associated with Olav spread, and in August 1031, he was canonized by Bishop Grimkjell, with the king’s approval and public support. From then on, Olav Haraldsson became known as Saint Olav, having great significance for faith and national identity.

Norway’s Eternal King and Coat of Arms
During the Middle Ages, Saint Olav became a symbol of both the monarchy and the church in Norway. By the late 12th century, he was given the title "Rex Perpetuus Norvegiae" (Norway’s Eternal King), and the martyr’s axe with which he was killed became part of Norway’s coat of arms in the 13th century, a symbol still used today.

Pilgrimages
Olav’s burial church in Trondheim and Stiklestad became important pilgrimage destinations. Saint Olav was venerated in both the Catholic and Orthodox churches. Pilgrims came from all over Scandinavia, and some traveled from distant lands to honor the saint.

Churches and Art Dedicated to Saint Olav
In the Middle Ages, over 300 churches and monasteries in Northern Europe were dedicated to Saint Olav. The first of these were built in England just decades after the Battle of Stiklestad. Art featuring Saint Olav, including paintings, sculptures, and pilgrimage badges, spread across Europe, with one of the most unique examples found in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, dating to around 1160. The legacy of Saint Olav continues today, with new churches and artworks still being created in his honor.