Kullervo
Tero Saarinen – Jean Sibelius
When Sibelius found the Kalevala
Why does everything go wrong for this tormented man? In the timeless tale from the Finnish national epic, Kullervo unknowingly seduces his own sister, kills his enemies and finally falls on his own sword. When composer Jean Sibelius as a young man encountered the tragic tale of Kullervo in the Kalevala, the result made Finnish musical history. Now Sibelius’s breakthrough work is given a stage interpretation by Tero Saarinen.
A devastatingly powerful work
Tero Saarinen, a choreographer and director known for his all-embracing approach, matches his powerful movement language with music performed by orchestra, choir and soloists for a unique experience. The set, costume and lighting design are in the hands of Saarinen’s trusted associates Erika Turunen and Mikki Kunttu.
Please note that the lighting used in this performance is brighter than usual.
“The relationship of an individual to his community, being persecuted, desiring intimacy and the breakdown of communications; these emerged as the main themes. Why does a person isolate himself and remain alone? Why does someone’s life become a hopeless existence under a dark cloud, with no space for positive things to develop?”
– Tero Saarinen, choreographer
The Finnish National Opera male chorus.
The male choir Ylioppilaskunnan Laulajat.
Kullervo forms part of the official celebrations for the centenary of Finland’s independence.
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