PAIN KILLER

Pain Killer is the latest creation from acclaimed choreographer Susanna Leinonen, taking audiences on a compelling journey into the core of human experience and the physical body. The work challenges viewers to confront pain as an essential part of life, questioning what is lost when we attempt to avoid discomfort through artificial means. The piece explores themes of disconnection from our bodies and emotions and considers how emotional avoidance shapes individuals and society at large. 

Leinonen continues her long-standing artistic collaboration with renowned rap artist and composer Kasperi Laine. Laine’s pulsating and experimental sound design merges seamlessly with Ville Seppänen’s innovative video design and Teemu Nurmelin’s lighting. Together, sound, image, and movement intertwine to create a dynamic performance world that evolves and breathes with the dancers on stage.

Pain Killer is a bold and thought-provoking contemporary dance work that invites audiences to deeply examine their personal relationship with pain, vulnerability, and the fundamental nature of being human. The piece offers a powerful artistic encounter that resonates emotionally and intellectually long after the performance ends.

Choreography Susanna Leinonen
Music Kasperi Laine
Video  Ville Seppänen
Lighting Design Teemu Nurmelin
Costume Design Sari Nuttunen
Costume Production Suvi-Tuulia Pajunen
Dancers Rebekka Guðmundsdóttir, Atte Kilpinen, Kasperi Kolehmainen, Katariina Luukas, Taru Pellinen, Marie da Silva

Duration approx. 40 min.
World premiere 8th of October 2025, Erkko Hall, Tanssin talo