The sharp gaze, the generous mentorship and the love of the arts
Henrik Lyding made a lasting impression on Danish performing arts through his decades as theatre critic at Jyllands-Posten.
He was among the initiators of the Reumert of the Year, and always took art seriously — no matter whether it was the country's smallest scenes or biggest stages. Quality, respect and love for the performing arts were always the focal points of his work.
Behind that sharp gaze stood a strong mentorship in which he supported and challenged generations of performing artists with integrity and curiosity.
Henrik Lyding's imprint lives on through the foundation.
Passion that lives on
Quality as a benchmark
Henrik Lyding was among the original jury members behind the Årets Reumert, one of Danish theatre’s most significant honours.
His influence, however, extended far beyond individual productions. Henrik Lyding helped shape the public discourse on the performing arts and culture, contributing to the standards by which performances were assessed.
Professionalism, integrity, and consistency were not merely ideals, but fundamental values that defined Henrik Lyding’s work.
Love for the performing arts
Henrik Lyding’s engagement with Danish performing arts was not merely professional; it was personal and a central part of his identity. His eye was precise, his humour sharp, and his enthusiasm genuine in his work as a critic.
He moved effortlessly between everything from major productions at the The Royal Danish Theatre to smaller stages across the country, as well as the traditions of revue and performances for children. Henrik Lyding approached every production with an equal measure of seriousness and curiosity.
It is this respect for the craft, and Henrik Lyding’s insistence on the importance of art, that forms the foundation of the foundation today.
About the Foundation
About the Foundation
The Henrik Lyding Memorial Fund was established to honour the memory of the theatre critic Henrik Lyding and to continue his commitment to Danish performing arts.