Stage for Contemporary Performance

The Stage of Contemporary Performance in Studio Pasila includes different forms of performing arts into the Helsinki City Theatre’s programme. The operation of the Stage of Contemporary Performance began in the theatre in 2021 as a pilot project, the purpose of which was to create a bridge between the institutional theatre and the free field. From 2024 onwards, the stage will continue as a part of the theatre’s seasonal programme.

Contemporary performances are topical forms of performing arts where different artforms or other fields such as science intertwine. Contemporary performances can be sensitive or provocative openings on the place of the art in the world. They might expand the stage to the back rooms, digital media or beyond human scales. Contemporary performances are often affected by societal discussions and global developments. Therefore the makers of contemporary performance view the theatre, performance and spectatorship from unique perspectives.

The planning of the programme and selections are made by curator Riikka Thitz together with an invited assisting curator.

In the Spring of 2024 the Stage for Contemporary Performance brings a visiting performance and a premiere to Studio Pasila. The performance created during the recidency period in the Summer of 2024 will have its premiere in August.

Stage for Contemporary Performance was initiated by freelance artists. A working group led by Lauri Antti Mattila approached the executive team of the Helsinki City Theatre with a proposal signed by 885 performing arts professionals. The proposal asked the theatre to respond to topical challenges in the society and field of performing arts.

In 2024–2025, the Stage for Contemporary Performance is supported by the Kone Foundation.

Media picks

Nykyesityksen näyttämö antaa isot puitteet teoksille, jotka useimmiten esitetään kellareissa. Trial & Theatre -ryhmän ensimmäinen suurempi teos ottaa suvereenisti paikkansa.

Maria Säkö / Helsingin Sanomat, 9.8.2023

Helsingin Feministisen salaseuran esitys Kohtaamisia (…) onkin harvinaisen hyvin valittu näytäntökauden startti, sillä se puhdistaa ja herkistää.

Maria Säkö / Helsingin Sanomat, 10.8.2022

Mitä väliä lopulta on sillä, kuuluuko esteettistä mielihyvää tuottava havainto esitykseen vai ei? Esitys kuitenkin on se, joka havainnon terästi.

Matti Tuomela / Helsingin Sanomat, 20.5.2022

For more information about the Stage for Contemporary Performance, visit the Helsinki City Theatre home page.