David Sandqvist appointed as Artistic Director of Lilla Teatern
The Board of Directors of the Helsinki Theatre Foundation has appointed David Sandqvist, Master of Arts (Theatre and Drama), as the Artistic Director of Lilla Teatern. The second contract period of the current Artistic Director Jakob Höglund ends on 31 July 2026, when Höglund will move on to other duties.
The Artistic Director of Lilla Teatern is responsible for the planning of the repertoire of the Swedish-language stage of the Helsinki City Theatre and the development of artistic quality. In addition, she participates in the general programme planning of the City Theatre and works as a director on HKT’s stages. The employment contract is fixed-term and valid from 1.8.2026 to 31.7.2029.
“The selection was carried out by invitation. As a rule, we are looking for an interesting director who is well acquainted with the Finnish-Swedish theatre field as the artistic director of Lilla Teatern. David’s directing of Skymning 41 last winter was an artistic success and an important demonstration of good cooperation with Lillan’s staff. It is great to be able to continue the cooperation,” says Theatre Director Kari Arffman.
“I am deeply grateful for the trust and accept the position with a great sense of responsibility. Lilla Teatern has a unique position in the Finnish-Swedish theatre scene, and I look forward to developing Lillan’s artistic profile together with colleagues and audiences. My goal is that Lillan will continue to be a stage where unforgettable performances and thought-provoking stories are at the center,” says director, actor and screenwriter David Sandqvist, who will start as Lilla Teatern’s artistic director in August 2026.
Read more in the press release.