The year is 1886. Arendal is by far the richest city in Norway – a major trading hub with international appeal. The city's future looks bright. But then something suddenly happens that turns everything upside down. Is the Arendal Private Bank bankrupt? Rumours begin to spread, and people panic. Norway's wealthiest city finds itself in its greatest crisis overnight. People lose everything – their money, their jobs and their security. The result is mass unemployment across the region and widespread hardship. In response, workers unite in protest and form what would later become the Norwegian Labour Party. How could this happen? And why has so little been told about it?

In the autumn of 2026, the story of the infamous Arendal crash will be brought to the stage at Kilden. Nye Arendals Dramatiske Selskab has been commissioned to dramatize the story of one of Norway's greatest financial disasters. The result is a grand performance about ambition, hardship and hope – wrapped in a humorous and light-hearted satire about both the past and ourselves. Joining them on stage is the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra, the pride of the entire region.