Sivuun Ensemble & Jarmo Saari Republic Invitation to dance

Dance Theatre Sivuun Ensemble celebrates its 15-year journey with an invitation to dance. This evening, infused with the spirit of solidarity and collaboration, showcases the powerful interplay of dance and live music.

The hypnotic music is performed by Sivuun Ensemble’s Finland Prize–winning composer and guitarist Jarmo Saari, drummers Olavi Louhivuori and Abdissa “Mamba” Assefa, and saxophonist Pauli Lyytinen. Creating a lively artistic dialogue through dance are Sivuun Ensemble, Alpo Aaltokoski Company, Liisa Pentti + Co, Off/Balance, Willman Dance Company, Hitaat Liikkeet ry / Playground Co, KATVE [blind spot] Company, Common Spine Collective, and Leena Harjunpää Co.

The music of Jarmo Saari Republic combines rich rhythmic textures, atmospheric soundscapes, live looping, and improvisation. This supergroup has enriched numerous Sivuun Ensemble productions over the years. Jazz Emma Award–winning saxophonist Pauli Lyytinen also made a memorable impression in Sivuun Ensemble’s critically acclaimed Silentopia, which was performed in the Erkko Hall in 2023.

Sivuun Ensemble is a Helsinki-based dance theatre founded in 2011. Its productions are characterized by a strong dialogue between artistic disciplines. Movement, music, visual imagery, and text are woven into collage-like works that offer new perspectives on contemporary issues significant to both individuals and communities. The company’s works have been presented at venues and events including Espoo Theatre, Turku City Theatre, Kuopio Dance Festival, April Jazz Festival, and various international festivals. The company’s artistic director is the award-winning choreographer and director Ninni Perko.