Total Karita | Finnish National Opera and Ballet, Helsinki, May 18 – June 2, 2022
Special evening celebrating Karita Mattila, Finland’s most famous opera diva, directed by Jussi Nikkilä and conducted by Dalia Stasevska. Performances ran May 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, and June 2 at the Finnish National Opera, with opening night live-streamed on Stage24 and Operavision. The program divided into two contrasting parts: Poulenc’s powerful La voix humaine (The Human Voice) performed in melodramatic film noir style, followed by a show of musical classics and popular repertoire.
takis designed the evening’s visual world, creating environments that served both the intimate psychological drama of Poulenc’s monologue and the celebratory atmosphere of the musical program. The design needed to transition from film noir aesthetics to concert staging while maintaining visual coherence across the evening. Costume design by Erika Turunen, lighting by Mikko Linnavuori, and choreography by Antton Laine completed the creative team.
The production honored Mattila’s extraordinary career while showcasing her versatility—from operatic intensity to popular entertainment. This marked an important collaboration between takis and Finnish National Opera, demonstrating how special events can be designed with the same rigor as full opera productions.
Creative Team: Director: Jussi Nikkilä | Designer: takis | Costumes: Erika Turunen | Conductor: Dalia Stasevska | Lighting: Mikko Linnavuori | Choreography: Antton Laine