Claes Malmberg leaves Fredriksdalsteatern as 2Entertain withdraws

Claes Malmberg is stepping down as the artistic leader of Fredriksdalsteatern in Helsingborg, following the withdrawal of entertainment company 2Entertain from its planned partnership with the theater.

2Entertain had previously intended to become a 60 percent majority owner of the company managing the theater for the period 2026–2030. However, Janne Andersson, CEO of 2Entertain, stated that the company is pulling out because the conditions discussed earlier this year are no longer valid. Andersson noted that when he attempted to purchase shares to become the main owner, new terms had been established.

Malmberg expressed disappointment, stating that he felt people he had known for a long time had “gone behind his back.” He explained that the original agreement involved him serving as the face and artistic leader under a democratic structure, but changed circumstances regarding ownership and decision-making led to his departure.

Other stakeholders suggested the split may stem from a clash in corporate cultures, noting a mismatch between 2Entertain’s large-scale production processes and the smaller-scale, more flexible operational style of Fredriksdalsteatern.