Contemporary dance meets jazz on Åbo Svenska Teater stage on Saturday 9 August in the premiere of "Pohjola - Nordic Roots" – a piece that portrays the history, nature and mentality of the North by the languages of movement and music.
The music for the fresh-from-the-oven piece has been penned by vocalist-composer Aili Ikonen, one of the most original voices of today’s Finnish jazz scene, and Jussi Fredriksson, the noted Turku-based jazz pianist and primus motor behind the concert series Flame Jazz. The composer pair is joined by electric guitar player Tuomo Dahlblom and double bassist Jori Huhtala, who weave an electro-acoustic soundscape for choreographer Niina Airaksinen’s long-awaited dance piece.
Abstract language of movement and improvisation – variation of theme – are features that jazz and contemporary dance have in common. The mood in Pohjola - Nordic Roots ranges from frail to raging not only in the music but also in the bodily expression of Jonna Aaltonen, Maija Kiviluoto, Karoliina Lummikko, Riku Lehtopolku, Mikko Makkonen and Jouni Majaniemi. Beautiful Kalevala jewellery highlight subtly the Northern thematics in the costume design.
The audience has a chance to attend an introductory presentation before the performance. The presenter on the opening night is Lin Sveinbjørnsson from The Viking Ship Museum, Denmark, and she will shed light on the Viking vessels and their significance for the Viking power. The presentation will be given in English. The art experience can be rounded off at Café Tiljan, where the table is set by Restaurant Foija in Scandinavian style.
Prices (Lippupalvelu / ÅST):
75 € Performance + Presentation + Dinner
45 € Performance + Presentation
30 € / 25€ Performance
Further information:
www.flamejazz.com
www.nadp.fi
Choreographer, director: Niina Airaksinen
Music: Aili Ikonen & Jussi Fredriksson
Dancers: Jonna Aaltonen, Maija Kiviluoto, Karoliina Lummikko, Riku Peltoniemi, Mikko Makkonen, Jouni Majaniemi
Musicians: Aili Ikonen (vocals), Jussi Fredriksson (piano),Tuomo Dahlblom (electric guitar), Jori Huhtala (double bass)
Lights: Antti Helminen
Costumes: Marjo Haapasalo
Jewellery: Kalevala Koru
Make-up: Alisa Oksanen
Scenography: Jani Uljas
In co-operation with Niina Airaksinen Dance Productions, Flame Jazz, Åbo Svenska Teater, Kalevala Koru