The Circus Market in Kerava 2026 Arctic Ensemble: Karkelot

“Karkelot (Revelry)” is a spectacular contemporary circus opus by the circus collective Arctic Ensemble, in which acrobatics high-five with folk dance and physical comedy. This collision of styles creates a kinetic carnival that fills the circus tent, stretching from floor to ceiling. The revelry is accompanied by accordionist Johanna Juhola’s traditional-futuristic live music and seasoned with the signature comedy of Kallo Collective.

Inspiration has been drawn from Finnish folk traditions but, as is the case with tradition, influences have been gathered from here and there, blended and tailored to create a unique style.

Characteristics of both acrobatics and folk dance are playful sparring and showboating, yet physical teamwork and nonverbal communication are a vital element of both. Trust is at the heart of these disciplines—you can rely on the group, lean on your dance partner, and throw yourself into a somersault or a leap into the air.

In the festivities, the community stands steadfastly by the individual, whether at celebratory ceremonies or during exercise classes. Dances ranging from the ‘katrilli’ to the ‘sottiisi’ and on to disco bring people together, and in these celebrations, tradition lives on and evolves. The work challenges us to consider what kinds of traditions we ourselves wish to build and carry on.