"Having the Queen as our Patron is a great recognition, and a reminder of the importance of the European Capital of Culture project. There is a tradition for members of the royal family to be patrons of the biggest cultural and sports projects in Norway", says Larsen. The fact that it is Queen Sonja herself who will be our Patron is extra special.

Queen Sonja is very interested in culture. She has worked with visual arts for many years and has, among other things, collaborated with Magne Furuholmen (of A-ha fame) on several exhibitions. In addition, she is an outdoor enthusiast. This combination suits our concept perfectly. One of our objectives is to use nature actively. Among other things, we will have concerts and other events in the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT) cabins all over Nordland. Having concerts in unusual places, preferably in nature, is a stated goal for Bodø2024.

"Now we may also have to use the various Queen's Routes in the county as an arena for events", smiles Larsen. Who naturally hopes that Queen Sonja will make the trip to Bodø and Nordland during the European Capital of Culture year.

Her Majesty Queen Sonja's patronage already includes the Norwegian Opera & Ballet, the Oslo Philharmonic and the Sølvguttene - Boys of Silver Foundation.

On the Royal Palace's website, the following is stated about the patronage: "The scheme with patronage functions as a recognition of organisations and events within important areas of social life. Normally, patronage is granted for a period of five years."