02. Iceland

We’re in Iceland for a special performance in a remote location, at a time of year when the sun never sets… In this episode, we go beyond this country's beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, Northern Lights and everything else it's well known for. We're going deep by exploring Icelandic arts, tradition, history and technology. You’ll get rare access to Ólafur Arnalds’ music studio; hear stories of Norse and Viking settlers who arrived here over 1000 years ago; meet an intriguing composer and craftsman living in an isolated corner of the island. You’ll also discover how people power changed politics in the country; journey deep into the earth to visit the heart of a volcano, and learn about harnessing its power to create sustainable energy. Local guide: Ívar Pétur Kjartansson. Contributors: Anna Dröfn Ágústssdóttir (historian), Ólafur Arnalds (artist and composer), Bergur Þorgeirsson (leading scholar on Snorri Sturluson and Icelandic sagas), Heiða Kristín Helgadóttir (former campaign manager for The Best Party), Steinar Berg (founder of Steinar Records and Rock'n Troll Café), Laufey Guðmundsdóttir (Director of the exhibition at Hellisheiði geothermal powerplant), Ásta and Filip (farmers), Páll á Húsafelli (artist and composer). Music by Ólafur Arnalds, Páll á Húsafelli, Stuðmenn, Spilverk and Mezzoforte.Presented & produced by Frank McWeeny. Executive producers: Marcelo Velit & Derek Barbolla. We'd love to hear from you! Get in touch - [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.