TOXIC

“Harsh dance about the toxic side of social media. In terms of its movement language, TOXIC has Leinonen written all over it. It’s detailed, physically demanding and extremely polished.”

TOXIC ponders the meaning of humanity while diving into the reality created by social media. The playful visual imagery and grotesque reflections in the grim world of TOXIC, seek approval.

TOXIC lives for attention. It’s obsessed with clout and influence. In this work, the body exists solely to create value.

TOXIC pleases and thrives. It shapes its very essence according to the desolate demands of the society. It exploits the power it possesses, without a sense of quilt or shame.

TOXIC is a product of our brutal times. It invades both the individual and the environment intrusively. The piece plays its malicious games while maintaining flawless image.

In all its desolation, however, Toxic seeks empathy and warmth and strives towards disappearing humanity.

Toxic is the second part of Susanna Leinonen’s trilogy (Nasty – Toxic – Body) focusing on corporeality.

Duration: 60 minutes

CONTENT WARNINGS: sexual abuse, body shaming, fat phobia, eating disorders, suicide.

Concept and visuality: Susanna Leinonen and Sari Nuttunen

Choreography & movement: Susanna Leinonen and the dancers

Music: Vincenzo Lamanga, Puce Mary, Nicholas Britell, Forest Swords, Mozart Jones, Hans Zimmer, Justin Timberlake, Béla Bartok, Max Richter & Jóhann Jóhannsson

Costumes, masks and wigs: Sari Nuttunen

Seamstress: Suvi-Tuulia Pajunen

Video: Ville Seppänen

Dancers: Emmi Hakala, Camilla Keihäs, Elina Lindfors, Aaron Saira and Tatiana Urteva

Thank you: Kasperi Laine, Antti Helminen, Arts Promotion Centre Finland, the City of Helsinki & Espoo Cultural Centre

Louhi Hall: Jarkko Lievonen, Markku Palmio, Ville Kujala, Miika Ärväs , Ville Halkonen, Jysky Kähkönen & Maija Hietala

World premiere: October 30, 2020, at 7pm, Louhi hall, Espoo, Finland