Oulu Music Festival: Ihminen parhaan kykynsä mukaan

A New Chamber Opera About a Different Kind of Love. Featuring opera singer Waltteri Torikka and actress Pihla Penttinen.

Ihminen parhaan kykynsä mukaan (A Human to the Best of Their Ability) is a love story between a man and a woman—without a traditional romance. It is also a tale of the courage required to reveal one’s true self. The story takes place inside the mind of a young man, trapped within memories and uncertain thoughts. As he strives to build a life that reflects his true self, he is encouraged and supported by a woman who is more than just a friend to him.

The world premiere is a co-production of Turku City Theatre, Saaristo-ooppera, and the Turku Philharmonic Orchestra. The opera, written by bestselling author Tommi Kinnunen, is composed by Joel Järventausta, who has already gained international recognition despite his young age. The production is directed by Pertti Sveholm and stars one of Finland’s leading opera singers, Waltteri Torikka, alongside actress Pihla Penttinen, known for her numerous stage and television roles. The music is performed by a six-piece ensemble under the baton of conductor Marko Hilpo.

“The work expands on the relationship between a man and a woman from a perspective that has rarely been explored—especially in the traditionally conservative world of opera.” – Author Tommi Kinnunen

The production is presented in collaboration with Saaristo-ooppera and is part of the 2025 Oulu Music Festival program. The music is performed by a six-piece orchestra, including musicians from the Oulu Sinfonia, conducted by Marko Hilpo.

The chamber opera has been supported by the Arts Promotion Centre Finland, the New Classics Fund, and the Matti Salminen Foundation.

Creative team:
Composer Joel Järventausta
Libretto Tommi Kinnunen
Director Pertti Sveholm
Conductor Marko Hilpo
Set Design Jani Uljas
Costume Design Tiina Valkama
Makeup Design  Petriina Suomela
Sound Design Mika Hiltunen
Lightning Design Timo Alhanen
Video Design Sanna Malkavaara

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Duration about 1 h (no intermission)

Tickest from Oulu Theatre and Lippu.fi.
41 € normal / 38 € pensioner / 29 € discount groups.