Note: No longer in repertoire!

For some, the role of serving others fits like a glove. For others, it begins to wear them down over time. What happens when they finally snap?

Palvelija tells the story of Detective Chief Inspector Arto Jylhämö, who gives a seminar lecture entitled “Human Nature from a Criminal Investigator’s Perspective”. Alongside the detective inspector, the play introduces a colourful cast of service professionals, from a midwife and priest to a mental health nurse and hairdresser.

Palvelija is a monologue written by Kari Hotakainen for Helsinki City Theatre. The play examines what it means to serve others: is it merely a profession, or a trait rooted more deeply in a person’s character? At every stage of life, we encounter people in service professions, from the midwife who witnesses our first cry to the gravedigger. How much can one person be asked to endure? Where is the line when those who serve have finally had enough? The multitalented Martti Suosalo steps into the role of the servant, not only playing every character but also directing the production.