Emil Gittansson Jensen’s “Vi måste hålla kontakten” – A Tribute to Friendship on Sweden’s Stages 2026

Emil Gittansson Jensen, acclaimed artist, poet, and songwriter, has made a mark on Sweden’s cultural scene in 2026 with his stage success Vi måste hålla kontakten. Here, he explores the important place of friendship in life, with equal parts warmth, humor, and musical richness. Jensen highlights the relationship as not only central, but often underrated in both art and society.

During spring 2026, Jensen toured the country and filled 21 theaters and concert venues to capacity, repeatedly met by standing ovations. The strong audience support shows that the show’s themes of solidarity, loneliness, rediscovered friendships, and resistance to individualism have struck a chord. Many in the audience have shared their own stories about reunions, losses, and how friendship has shaped their everyday life, testifying to the show’s ability to inspire both reflection and action.

The heart of Vi måste hålla kontakten is the vibrant combination of stage expression, poetry, and heartfelt music. Jensen draws from his own experiences of friendship, grief, and loss – such as when he lost his parents and a close friend – which gives the performance a rare authenticity. These stories, combined with philosophical reflections on why friendship is underrated, invite the audience to reflect on what a true friend means and why it is necessary to stay in touch, regardless of life’s circumstances.

The show is directed by Siri Bengtén, who together with Jensen has renewed the stage arts with creative devices, including the use of a classic overhead projector. The music is brought to life by Vänskapsband: Anna Dager on cello, Hanna Ekström on violin and Staffan Findin on trombone and percussion. Together they create an emotional soundscape that captures both intimate moments and collective joy.

Emil Jensen’s artistic career is characterized by boundary-crossing creativity. He has released eight critically acclaimed albums, written several books and is regularly heard on Sveriges Radio in programs such as “Godmorgon världen” and “Tankar för dagen”. Among his awards are the Nils Ferlin Prize, the Evert Taube Prize, the Karl Gerhard Prize and ABF’s Cultural Prize 2026. This marks his significant role as one of the country’s most influential contemporary cultural figures.

Autumn Tour 2026: Dates and Ticket Information

After the successful spring tour Jensen returns with an extended autumn tour to give more people the chance to be inspired by this life-affirming show about the power of friendship. Confirmed tour dates for autumn 2026 are:

• 09-Oct: Lunds Stadsteater (sold out)
• 10-Oct: Landskrona Teater
• 17-Oct: Flen, Kultur- & litteraturfestival
• 19-Nov: Stockholm, Kulturhuset Stadsteatern
• 21-Nov: Jönköpings Teater
• 22-Nov: Malmö, Palladium
• 26-Nov: Hässleholm, Kulturhuset
• 27-Nov: Göteborg, Stora Teatern
• 28-Nov: Göteborg, Stora Teatern (extra)

With Vi måste hålla kontakten, Emil Gittansson Jensen shows the quiet yet transformative value in keeping friendship alive. At a time when social bonds can sometimes feel fragile, his performance stands as strong proof of the enduring power and meaning of friendship.