Once a quiet mountain farm, Risen has been transformed by the energy of those who live there now – a legendary trio known as the Risen Bandidos: Arent, Nils and Walid. Together with our extended festival crew and community, they’ve turned this valley into a home for music, magic and connection.
The first Trollkauk started small. A few friends, a sound system, a spark of an idea. Today, it’s a fully sold-out celebration where folk music meets forest rave, where workshops meet wide-open meadows, and where creativity runs free – from the main stage to the tiniest troll corners of the woods.
We are powered by volunteers, late-night dreamers and a whole lot of DIY. Trollkauk is built, decorated and danced into life by the people who come – artists, crew, dancers, makers, and you.
So if you're looking for a polished, corporate festival… this ain't it. But if you're looking for something real, something wild, something soft and sweaty and silly — welcome. You're one of us now <3
Behind every bit of Trollkauk magic stands a small but mighty team of trolls who pour their hearts, energy and humor into making the festival what it is. From the first spark of an idea to the last piece of glitter cleaned up from the field — this is the crew that keeps it all running.
Esten Mortensen is Trollkauk’s fearless Chief of Controlled Chaos — the heart, engine, and original firestarter of the festival. Since the festival’s humble beginnings, Esten has been the one turning bold dreams into real experiences. He’s the first to show up on site and the last to leave — often found with a tool in one hand and giving someone a big hug with the other. Esten builds stages, coordinates teams, solves problems, keeps spirits high and makes sure everything runs smoothly. He doesn’t just make Trollkauk happen — he is Trollkauk.
Kristine Nyberg Todal is Esten’s best friend and right-hand troll. As co-captain of Trollkauk, she brings years of experience from other festivals and has been involved since the very beginning. She’s in charge of all things backstage, keeps the Safe Haven truly safe, and makes sure artists feel welcome and supported.
Karen Elise Haugen has previously rocked the bar as manager for two years, but now focuses fully on design and visual magic behind the scenes.
Maria "Ree" Sæheim Pedersen is the one making sure every volunteer feels confident, seen and supported.
Henrik, Lars and Kristiine “Kiira” are the brilliant minds behind Trollskogen — the enchanted forest stage. From lights and secret installations to immersive soundscapes, these three Skogstroll craft the wild and wonderful atmosphere that makes the forest come alive. Oh, and they’re all DJs too — catch them behind the decks as the trees start to dance.
Together, we build, dream, organize, improvise — and make Trollkauk come to life. We’re always around the site, so don’t be shy to say hi!
