Katrín Halldóra Sigurðardóttir Joins “Þetta er Laddi” Amidst Rave Reviews
The theatrical production “Þetta er Laddi” has been a standout hit since its debut earlier this year. Now, the show welcomes a new face as actress and singer Katrín Halldóra Sigurðardóttir steps into the spotlight, replacing Vala Kristín Eiríksdóttir, who is taking maternity leave. This transition marks an exciting moment in the Icelandic theater scene, as Katrín brings a fresh perspective to an already beloved performance.
From “Elly” to “Þetta er Laddi”: A Seamless Transition
Katrín, who recently concluded her role in the long-running production “Elly,” was quick to accept the new role in “Þetta er Laddi.” Speaking about the transition, she mentioned, “It was quite fortunate that I was available. Vala Kristín and I are classmates from our acting studies at the Iceland University of the Arts, so we know each other very well.” The show’s director, Ólafur Egill Ólafsson, co-wrote the play with Katrín, ensuring a seamless collaboration.
When asked about the new role, Katrín admitted she initially underestimated its complexity. “During rehearsals, I thought it would be manageable,” she recalled. “But after the intermission, I realized there was much more to it.”
Exploring Laddi’s Legacy Through a New Lens
Katrín’s role as a sort of host guiding the audience through the myriad characters created by Laddi offers a unique narrative exploration. Laddi, a cherished figure in Icelandic entertainment, boasts a vast gallery of characters built over nearly six decades. The show delves into Laddi’s personal story, uncovering layers of his life that have remained largely private. “The big question is, why does this shy man always want to make people laugh?” Katrín pondered.
The Show’s Potential for Longevity
Drawing parallels to “Elly,” which enjoyed a lengthy run, Katrín is optimistic about the future of “Þetta er Laddi.” “It’s a large production, and people love coming to the theater. We enjoy watching stories about people’s lives,” she noted. “I wouldn’t be surprised if this show continues through the next theater season.”
Katrín also highlighted her dual talent in acting and singing, though she rarely gets the chance to showcase the latter. “If I had practiced, I might have managed to sneak in a song,” she laughed. She has, however, added a surprise duet with Laddi and expanded one musical piece slightly. “You always have to throw in a bit of music, right?”
A Commitment to Excellence
While Vala Kristín is on maternity leave, Katrín is fully committed to “Þetta er Laddi,” despite the uncertainty of how long this engagement will last. Reflecting on the nature of theater, she remarked, “It’s a big decision to say yes to a show, especially one likely to have a long run.” The commitment is evident in her dedication to each performance, ensuring every audience feels it’s their first experience.
Katrín expressed that the joy of theater lies in the live interaction with the audience. “It’s the most fun when the curtain rises, and you meet the audience,” she said. “Each performance evolves with the crowd, and there’s always something new.”
Motherhood Enhancing Her Craft
Having taken a break to have her two children, Katrín believes the experience has enriched her acting skills. “Going to work feels like a bit of a break,” she joked. The excitement was palpable as she anticipated the first Laddi performance last Friday. “It’s so much fun to be in the theater and get that adrenaline rush. That’s why we do this. The theater can be the most enjoyable workplace in the world.”
Looking Ahead
With a talented cast and a dynamic storyline, “Þetta er Laddi” is set to captivate audiences for the foreseeable future. Katrín Halldóra’s addition to the cast brings a new dimension to the production, promising a blend of humor, introspection, and musical flair. As she takes on this new role, Katrín remains committed to delivering a performance that resonates with every audience member, ensuring that each show is as lively and engaging as the last.
An interview with Katrín Halldóra can be heard on Rás 2’s Síðdegisútvarpið, available above.