Captivating Audiences with Unprecedented New Expressions

Dance and ballet in the Nordic countries have evolved uniquely within Europe. Among them, Tero Saarinen and his company stand out as central figures in Finland, a nation boasting a rich and diverse dance scene.

For their debut in Japan, Tero Saarinen Company will present "MORPHED," their latest work choreographed to three musical pieces by Esa-Pekka Salonen, another prominent Finnish artist, composer, and conductor.

Photo: Heikki Tuuli

Photo: Heikki Tuuli

"MORPHED," meaning "constantly changing," is intricately woven with three seamlessly flowing musical pieces. The dance unfolds with powerful yet delicate movements, evoking the transient nature of people and the ever-shifting rhythms of the natural world.

Saarinen's choreography, known for its distinctive use of balance and off-balance, draws from a wide range of influences, including traditional Japanese dance and martial arts, classical ballet, and Western contemporary dance. His works have garnered international acclaim, celebrated as "total artworks" for their unique choreography, exceptional dancers, striking visual effects, and frequent integration of live music.

A highlight of "MORPHED" is the unique expressive method created by the interplay between the eight male dancers' powerful and dynamic movements, characteristic of Saarinen's style, and the countless ropes hanging around them, which sway in rhythm with the dance's ebb and flow. The piece vividly portrays the interplay of various emotions—intensity and tranquility, conflict and harmony, hatred, desire, and love—as they intersect and resonate.

This dialogue between dance and music, praised by composer Esa-Pekka Salonen himself, is a must-see performance not only for dance enthusiasts but also for fans of classical and contemporary music.

Photo: Tanja Ahola

Tero Saarinen's "MORPHED"
Dates: Saturday, June 20th & Sunday, June 21st
Time: Doors open 14:30, Performance starts 15:00
Venue: Saitama Performing Arts Center, Main Hall
3-15-1 Kami-fusa, Chuo-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture
Tel. 048-858-5500
Choreography: Tero Saarinen
Music: Esa-Pekka Salonen
Performers: Tero Saarinen Company
Ticket Prices: General: S seats ¥5,000, A seats ¥3,500
Under 25: S seats ¥3,500, A seats ¥2,000 (for those aged 25 and under at the time of performance; ID required)
*All seats reserved
Tickets on sale now

Inquiries: Ticket Center
Tel. 0570-064-939
http://www.saf.or.jp/