Khimhan (16) oppfylte drømmen i Larvik

Khimhan Reinhardt Johansen, a 16-year-old from Larvik, has been cast as Titi Zuru, the lead role of the “Råkkeulven” (The Råkke Wolf), in Teaterhuset Munken’s upcoming musical “Råkkeulven og de sju geitekillingene.” The production, which premieres June 20 and runs through June 28, features over 80 actors and provides a modern, rock-inspired take on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale.

How was the role of Titi Zuru assigned?

The casting took place in the theater’s mirror hall among 40 aspiring actors, according to production details. The director announced the roles in alphabetical order, with Johansen receiving the lead role of the wolf toward the end of the list.

Johansen stated he felt “shocked” and “taken aback” by the news, noting that he had dreamed of the role for a long time.

Did You Know? Johansen’s history with the production dates back to 2018 when he was eight years old; at that time, he performed in the background as “Lamb 3.”

What is the production of Råkkeulven og de sju geitekillingene?

The musical focuses on the disruption the Råkke Wolf causes for animal families in the forest, specifically focusing on a mother goat and her seven kids. While based on the Brothers Grimm, Teaterhuset Munken is presenting the story in a “rocked and modern” style.

The production utilizes two separate teams of actors to manage the performance schedule. Leading up to the June 20 premiere, rehearsals have intensified to several times per week to finalize the script and makeup.

How has the actor’s role evolved since 2018?

Johansen has progressed from a minor background role to the primary antagonist. In 2018, he watched Simen Lysnes Bjerkholt play the wolf, describing Bjerkholt’s deep voice and “scary” presence as a major inspiration for his own current interpretation.

Beyond this production, Johansen has a history of local performance. He played the role of Justus, the son of Colin Archer, in the 2021 production of Archerspelet, and appeared as a robber in Kardemomme By last year.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the transition from a passive role like “Lamb 3” to a dominant lead like the Råkke Wolf represents a significant leap in performance demand, requiring the actor to shift from ensemble blending to driving the narrative tension of the entire play.

What challenges and inspirations shaped the performance?

Johansen described the primary challenge as the contrast between his personal nature and the character. While he describes himself as “very kind and calm,” the Råkke Wolf must be “mean,” threatening, and “constantly hunting to spread fear.”

To build the character, Johansen drew inspiration from NRK’s version of the story, previous productions of “Råkkeulven,” and the character of Captain Sabeltann. He noted that both Sabeltann and the wolf share traits of being “big, scary and a bit tough.”

What may happen next for the young actor?

Johansen is seeking a place in a music program this autumn. His long-term goal is to establish a professional career in film and series acting, which he describes as what he “most wants to do.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is playing the lead role in the upcoming musical?
Khimhan Reinhardt Johansen, a 16-year-old from Larvik, will play the lead role of Titi Zuru (the Råkke Wolf).

When does the production run?
The musical premieres on June 20 and continues until June 28.

What previous roles has Khimhan Reinhardt Johansen held?
He previously played “Lamb 3” in the 2018 production of Råkkeulven, Justus in the 2021 production of Archerspelet, and a robber in Kardemomme By last year.

Do you think it is more challenging for an actor to play a character who is the opposite of their own personality?