In a bold fusion of theater, dance, and electronic music, Swedish choreographer Fredrik "Benke" Rydman is set to premiere Lonely Together, an interactive stage production honoring the legacy of the late EDM icon Avicii. Scheduled to debut on August 29, 2025, at Kulturhuset Stadsteatern in Stockholm, this avant-garde performance invites audiences to experience Avicii's music in a wholly new dimension.
Breaking the Fourth Wall with Sound and Movement
Lonely Together dismantles traditional theater boundaries by placing the audience directly on stage, blurring the lines between observer and participant. Attendees are encouraged to move freely among the performers, engaging with the narrative through proximity and shared space. This 360-degree setup transforms the conventional spectator experience into an immersive journey, where Avicii's melodies serve as the emotional backbone of the story.
A Narrative of Shared Humanity
The production weaves a poignant tale of strangers revealing their deepest secrets, each grappling with personal pain yet united by a collective hope for healing. Through a blend of live music, dance, and spoken word, the ensemble—comprising actors, dancers, and musicians—brings to life the universal themes embedded in Avicii's work. The cast includes notable performers such as Peter Gardiner, Maja Rung, and Fredrik Lycke, who, alongside their colleagues, navigate the delicate interplay of vulnerability and resilience.
From Unrealized Tour to Theatrical Homage
Rydman's collaboration with Avicii was initially envisioned as a world tour, a project halted when the DJ ceased touring in 2016 to focus on his well-being. Lonely Together emerges as a realization of that unfulfilled vision, translating the energy of a live concert into a theatrical context. This transformation not only pays tribute to Avicii's artistic influence but also underscores the enduring relevance of his music in contemporary narratives.
A Testament to Avicii's Enduring Impact
By recontextualizing Avicii's compositions within a theatrical framework, Lonely Together offers a fresh perspective on the artist's legacy. The production stands as a testament to the transformative power of music and its capacity to foster connection and empathy. As audiences prepare to step into this innovative space, they are invited to reflect on the shared human experiences that Avicii so eloquently captured in his work.