A Swedish comedian will come back to life 72 years after his first appearance at the first Hyllningsfest.

Multi-talented Steve Benson, educator, broadcaster, and performer, will bring Olle i Skratthult, the headline Swedish comedian at the first Hyllningsfest, back to life in Lindsborg during a number of events over the festival weekend.

In his day Olle became the USA’s most popular Swedish American performer using his native Värmland dialect. Benson, in celebration of his Augustana Lutheran Swedish heritage, brings Olle’s wit and humor to modern-day audiences.

In addition to Friday night’s “Jazz at the JO” event, commentary before and during the parade Saturday morning, and attending the Bethany Lutheran Church Forum on Sunday, Benson will bring Olle to the Bethany Home activities center Saturday afternoon at 3:30. It is anticipated many of the home’s residents saw the real Olle at the first Hyllningsfest 72 years ago or at one of his other performances in this area.

The Bethany Home appearance is open to the public and completely free of charge.

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Story by: Chris Abercrombie