- Next Article Financial hardship in Finland rises for third consecutive year
The annual Via Crucis passion play will take place in central Helsinki on Easter Saturday, 19 April, from 21:00 to 22:15. The large-scale open-air performance, directed for the third time by Markku Arokanto, is free and open to all.
The play unfolds on and around Senate Square, with the steps of Helsinki Cathedral serving as a key stage.
Written by Anna-Mari Kaskinen, the production is fully scored, featuring music by Pekka Simojoki. This year, the script has been updated, and new music has been introduced, with additional compositions by Antti Vuori, who also handled musical arrangements and sound design.
Panu Haavisto reprises his role as Jesus for the third time. The play’s central theme, according to Arokanto, is “from light to darkness, from darkness to brightness.”
Inspired by medieval European passion traditions, Via Crucis has been staged in Helsinki since 1987, attracting thousands of spectators each year. The production is built around themes of solitude, exclusion, and acceptance, highlighting the importance of human connection.
Accessibility remains a priority, with live audio description available in Finnish and Swedish for visually impaired attendees. The large cast includes both professional and amateur performers, supported by volunteers.
HT
- Next Article Financial hardship in Finland rises for third consecutive year
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
