Production info Images of modern man – when even the life itself can be branded. The...
Choreographer Aaltokoski interprets the 88 years old Okon Fuoko ballet composition in the light of SoMe phenomena. AAC’s new work brings on stage seven top contemporary dancers and the vivid handprint of an internationally acclaimed working group.
Finnish composer Leevi Madetoja’s (1887-1947) ballet composition Okon Fuoko was completed in 1927. As one of Madetoja’s principal works, this ballet pantomime with Japanese theme has been described as follows: ”Okon Fuoko is the most finest Finnish scores in which the composer has achieved a unique brightness, translucency and nuances.” (Erkki Salmenhaara: Leevi Madetoja, Helsinki 1987)
Choreographer Alpo Aaltokoski equates Okon Fuoko’s story to today’s selfie culture. ”Internet is the horn of plenty of wishes in which we can build the ideal partner for ourselves or try ourselves to become one. This is not, however, a phenomenon only characteristic to our time: since centuries people have projected their dreams to various images and artificial constructions.”
Choreography: Alpo Aaltokoski
Music: Leevi Madetoja (Okon Fuoko recorded by Oulu Sinfonia, Alba Music Oy 2005)
Costume design: Marja Uusitalo
Lighting and scenography: Saija Nojonen
Choreographer’s assistant: Tuovi Rantanen
Dance: Johanna Ikola, Unna Kitti, Ahto Koskitalo, Jouni Majaniemi, Tuovi Rantanen, Esete Sutinen, Jussi Väänänen
Photos and graphic design: Ninna Lindström
Dressmaker: Sarita Vepsäläinen
Screen projections: Mikko Lampinen
Premiere 28.8.2015, Aleksanterin teatteri, Helsinki
”Veteran choreographer’s new work collides a classic story and today’s selfie culture. The company’s brilliant team offer their message in a refreshing way. And then there is the darker side. The music absolutely foists the Rite of Spring theme. Oh, this performance refers to so much it causes the observer to break or burst. And yet it embodies the language and insight of the choreographer.”
”We all are puppets. The performance, which carefully hearkens the music, at times crystallizes in breathtakingly impressive, aphoristic hot spots that examine the wretchedness of self.”
”If I ought to describe the performance using only one word, it would definitely be lightness.”
”Sparkling lively dance.”
Premiere: August 28, 2015 Alexander Theatre, Helsinki
Other performances: 29.8. (2) / 2.9. (1) / 3.9.2015 (1) Alexander Theatre, Helsinki
9.6.2019 Busan International Dance Festival, South Korea