The Musical Theater Uncle Erik

A theater performance about Erik Nilsson's life

Farbror Erik is a musical theater production based on Erik Nilsson's short but eventful life. The story begins in the 1940s. A seriously ill and lonely boy in a hospital dreams of making a difference, even though no one believes he can achieve anything. He eventually lays the foundation for one of the country's largest aid organizations, but behind his success was a son, a husband, and a father who devoted his life to helping others when he could barely take care of himself. Everyone knows about Erikshjälpen, but who was Erik really?

Erik was born in Ruda, Småland, but spent much of his childhood in hospital. As a teenager, he began writing to other sick children, and his much-appreciated, hopeful letters took him all the way to Sven Jerring's radio program. He met the love of his life, Ulla, and that was the starting point for Erikshjälpen.

About the production

The script was written by Mats Kjelbye, who has written for Gothenburg City Theater and Malmö Opera, among others. Johan Holmström wrote the music, and Smålands Musik & Teater is behind the production.

Other information

Running time: 1 hour and 50 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission