A tragicomic, bold and poetic dive into what it means to grow up and live as a woman among the white population of Finland.

Through three women of different generations – Olga, Peppi and Erykah – Surullinen tyttö (Sad Girl) weaves an impressive tapestry of experiences of a sense of self growing in a liminal space, and the pressure caused by otherness to not fragment into a space of changing, externally defined compartments. Surullinen tyttö brings to the stage the history, present and future of a Finnish minority – the shame, rootlessness, minority stress and fragile mental health – without forgetting hope, laughter and common humanity.
The songs, ranging from pop to punk, and the lubricating movement of a swing set provide contrast for the sore points: how racism leaves its mark on the mind and body – and how you can also overcome it. This performance directly poses the following questions: Can you get sick from racism? Who is allowed to speak? Who is listened to? And can you even laugh about it in the end?
Surullinen tyttö is a bold and heartfelt multidimensional work that leaves the viewer shaken and gives a voice to those who have long been underheard. The work boisterously explores the loneliness in society by using the paint cans of art. The play invites you to watch, listen and feel – and, above all, to belong. Come and join us on this journey. Unbearable lightness/hope/work/love/freedom.

Creative team
Script, lyrics and direction: Kaisla Löyttyjärvi
Starring: Emilia Neuvonen, Miriam Shange, Kaisla Löyttyjärvi
DJ: Eero Löyttyjärvi
Music dramaturgy and adaptation: Emilia Neuvonen
Choreography: Miriam Shange and the team
Sound design: Eero Löyttyjärvi
Light design: June Horton-White
Puppet designer: Heini Maaranen
Costume designer: Noora Salmi
Composers: Joonas Munck, Matilda Elo, Ville Vuorela, Veera Mäenpää, M. Malkamäki, Mikaela Mansikkala, Tuomas Munck, Aino Munck, Miika Jokinen
Photo: Jenni Haili
Supported by: Samuel Huber Art Foundation, Kansan Sivistysrahasto (People’s Education Fund)

Duration of the performance: approx. 2 hours, intermission
Age recommendation: 14+ (suitable for lower secondary school pupils and adults)
Language: Finnish