Kivisilta emphasizes importance of Sibelius Hall in Lahti for local culture

Kimmo Kivisilta, who has been leading the Sibelius Hall in Lahti for a year, emphasizes the importance for locals to understand the significance of their concert and event venue. Prior to his role as CEO of the event company managing Sibelius Hall, Kivisilta served as the CEO of Helsinki’s arena, where he witnessed the impact of losing a major venue to Russian ownership. “Helsinki realized the importance of an event venue when the arena was taken out of the equation,” he noted.

The absence of a large concert venue has limited international artists’ opportunities to perform in Finland. Kivisilta states that Sibelius Hall serves as a landmark for Lahti, akin to ski jumps, making it essential to convey to decision-makers the consequences if the venue did not exist.

Sibelius Hall, recognized for its architecture, was completed in 2000 as the home of the Lahti Symphony Orchestra. However, it has faced significant budget cuts in recent years, following the dissolution of a previous loss-making event company, prompting the city to end direct support for the newly established Eventum Lahti.

In spring 2024, Eventum Lahti underwent restructuring negotiations, resulting in the layoffs of four permanent employees. The organization aims to become financially independent, with cost reduction efforts underway, including renegotiating rental agreements with the city.

Kivisilta is focused on increasing revenue by enhancing event offerings, diversifying ticket sales, and attracting artists that resonate with local audiences. They recently tested festival-style events that combined concerts with outdoor dining experiences. Kivisilta highlighted that a significant portion of their business comes from corporate events, with about 350 such events hosted annually, underscoring the venue’s multifaceted role beyond just concerts.

While ticket prices are largely dependent on performers, there is currently no need for price increases. Kivisilta is excited about the upcoming season, featuring events from the Lahti Symphony Orchestra and other performers at both the concert hall and the all-ages Finlandia Club within the same building.