They've spread all over the world, and millions of people ride them daily, but what do we really know about escalators? Escalator Journey is a performance created by circus and theater director Meri-Maija Näykki, in which the audience embarks on an exploration of escalators.
If the journey is more important than the destination, why don’t we ever take escalator rides?
Escalator Journey is a humorous and playful performance that delves deep into the history and psyche of escalators. Each audience member receives their own travel notebook, juice box, and backpack, through which they explore the escalators at their own pace with the help of tasks provided. Later, the audience gathers together with tour guide Näykki to deepen their understanding.
The audience is added to a performance-specific WhatsApp group, where part of the performance takes place. You’ll need to bring your smartphone, headphones, and comfortable shoes.
Escalator Journey premiered on October 13, 2023 in Tampere, and now it is seen as part of Grus Grus Theatre’s Mental Airport program. Performances at festivals begin from the History Classroom of Panimoravintola Koulu, Eerikinkatu 18, 20100 Turku. During the journey, you’ll be in a public space in the Hansa Shopping Centre.
The duration of the performance is approximately 1.5 hours, and the language of the performance is Finnish. Escalator Journey is not accessible for those with mobility challenges.
Idea, direction, and Tour Guide role: Meri-Maija Näykki
Dramaturge: Iiris Syrjä
Dialogue writers: Ishmael Falke and Sofia Molin
Producer: Fatima Amokrane
Photographs: Frans Rinne
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