The performance programme Ämmät ohjaa, created by circus students from Turku University of Applied Sciences’ Arts Academy, brings together three distinct artists, perspectives, and approaches to creating circus. The performances feature acrobatics both as solo and group work, on the ground and in the air, various forms of juggling, and live music.
The directors’ thoughts on their own work:
Viimeiset Vieraat
“My starting point for this work was to combine circus technique and music with the idea of fleeting moments and the thought that perhaps nothing is ever meant to last forever.”
—Milla Kuitunen
Summer Still Lasts
“In my work, I explore the relationship between the female body, identity, and self-image. The performers confront themselves and reflect on how external expectations shape them. The piece returns to a more natural relationship with the body, exploring femininity, self-awareness, and the possibility of starting anew.”
—Matilde Viegas Martins
GLAM
“GLAM is a vibrant, spotlight-hungry circus piece where glamour, glitter, and unapologetic attitude take centre stage. The performance is a celebration of extravagance, femininity, and getting dressed up – but also a loving satire of how seriously we can sometimes take our own reflection in the mirror.”
—Miina Ebeling
Director: Milla Kuitunen
Performers:
Miina Ebeling
Alisa Viljanen
Lauriina Lahtinen
Melissa Borodulin
Summer Still Lasts
Director: Matilde Viegas Martins
Performers:
Heta Nykänen
Manna Becker
Auri Rautio
GLAM
Director: Miina Ebeling
Performers:
Elsa Tuomala
Manna Becker
Iris Korpela
Viivi Elolampi
Taija Risti
Heta Lääkkö