The Rafto Foundation's 30th anniversary

The Rafto Foundation was established in 1986, and its 30th anniversary was marked with a gala performance to a packed Grieghallen. Siri Lill Mannes and Jostein Hole Kobbeltvedt hosted the evening, and 18 former Rafto Prize laureates were in the audience.

Performers included Kygo, Fargespill, Sondre Lerche, Frode Grytten Beat Band, Sivan Perwer, Ragnhild Hemsing and Ingrid Andsnes – and Morten Harket, who reminded the audience that "right now, human rights are more important than ever". Kygo played a piano medley from his album Cloud Nine while images of all 30 Rafto Prize laureates appeared behind him (read more on Kygo's website). That year's laureate, Yanar Mohammed from Iraq, received a standing ovation.

We have worked with the Rafto Foundation for many years, including on its 25th anniversary at Den Nationale Scene. Few assignments mean more to us than giving human rights defenders a dignified stage.