Wäre debuts as choreographer of a full-length ballet

The Finnish National Ballet in late February will premiere Reija Wäre’s first full-length ballet, Édith Piaf – La vie en rose, said Finnish National Opera in a press release on Tuesday.

Édith Piaf’s extraordinary life left behind a lasting musical legacy that continues to be cherished decades later. T

his new ballet offers a kaleidoscopic portrait of Édith Piaf’s life. It tells a true story while exploring the depths of the protagonist’s emotions. Though rooted in classical ballet, it also incorporates the movement language of contemporary dance to reflect Piaf’s distinctive gestures and way of moving.

Reija Wäre has gained international recognition as the stage director for Finland’s Eurovision Song Contest entries, most recently Käärijä’s Cha cha cha in 2023 and Windows95man’s No Rules in 2024.

Her work has been showcased in settings as diverse as the ice ballet The Snow Queen in Tampere and the World Championships of synchronised skating and group gymnastics. In 2022, Wäre choreographed Clique for the Youth Company of the Finnish National Ballet, which was performed at Almi Hall and received with great enthusiasm.

The ballet’s music has been compiled and composed by Jukka Nykänen, who drew inspiration from Édith Piaf’s repertoire.

Audiences will recognise familiar melodies and small motifs that echo Piaf’s most iconic songs. The music will be performed by the Orchestra of the Finnish National Opera and conducted by Aliisa Neige Barrière, who is making her debut at the Finnish National Opera and Ballet.

The visuals of the ballet are the work of acclaimed Finnish designers. Costumes are by Erika Turunen, sets by Jani Uljas, and lighting and projections by Joonas Tikkanen.