Sari Palmgren: Last Dance

Choreographer Sari Palmgren's latest work, Last Dance, is a poignant ballad of biodiversity loss set against a soundtrack of popular hits. Infused with hope, the piece envisions a shift in the human-nature relationship – turning towards the other and the unknown – before the last shared dance. Last Dance brims with emotion and nostalgia. Its playlist features hits from recent decades, shifting movement from tender ballads to pulsating rhythms. But this is more than just a trip down memory lane – Last Dance is also a ballad of biodiversity loss. The symbioses and networks in nature, the species that depend on one another, are in danger. The performance’s duets draw inspiration from symbiotic relationships around us, such as the bond between the slimy spike-cap and spruce, or the ladybird and braconid wasp. One is used to reach further, the other is drained of life, while the third is allowed to flourish. Age recommendation: 10+ Duration: 60 mins Post-performance artist talk on 12.3.2025 Choreography and direction: Sari Palmgren in collaboration with the working group Dancers: Krista-Julia Arppo, Minna Kaaronen, Olli Lautiola, Kaisa Niemi, Alina Sakko Lighting and spatial design: Teo Lanerva Costume design: Siru Kosonen Sound design: Joonas Pehrsson Production: Routa Company, Zodiak – Centre for New Dance, Sari Palmgren & CO PR photos: Uupi Tirronen Performance photos: Minna Hyvönen Teaser videos: Ari Kauppila Premiere: 28.11.2024, Seminaarin Taidekampus, Kajaani