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  

In collaboration with Saaristo-oopperan 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:
Waltteri Torikka, opera singer  
Pihla Penttinen, actress  
Eero Tekoniemi, percussion  
Oulu Symphony musicians:  
Heidi Ilmolahti, violin  
Miia-Karoliina Vettenranta, violin  
Emiliano Travasino, viola  
Greta Ernesaks, cello

Production 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  
Lighting Design: Timo Alhanen  
Video Design: Sanna Malkavaara  

Thu 20.3. at 7 pm
Fri 21.3. at 1 pm
Suuri näyttämö
Duration 1 hour, no intermission

Tickets

Tickets are sold by Oulu theatre and Lippu.fi

Prices: 41 € normal / 38 € pensioner / 29 € discount groups

More information at Oulu theatre website at oulunteatteri.fi/palvelut/liput/.

Accessibility

Oulu Theatre offers accessible entry to all areas. An elevator to the upper floors is located in the lobby, near Restaurant Aulis. For more information, please visit Oulu Theatre’s website at oulunteatteri.fi.

The organizer reserves the right to make changes.