Young girl’s story from Lapland War adapted for stage at Kemi Theatre in Finland

A young girl escapes the devastation of the Lapland War, making her way toward Sweden while carrying her beloved lapland cows. This harrowing journey is not easy for either humans or animals, and arriving in a foreign land poses its own challenges. The story of this girl is told by author Rosa Liksom in her novel “Väylä,” which was a finalist for the Finlandia Prize in literature and became a favorite among readers during the 2021 awards.

Now, the narrative of “Väylä” has been adapted for the stage, with its premiere taking place today at Kemi Theatre. The adaptation has been directed by Tuomo Rämö, who has a personal connection to the theme, as his own family hails from Karelia and has experienced the plight of being displaced.

The lead role is played by Sirpa Filppa, a veteran actress who retired from Kemi City Theatre two years ago after a 40-year career. Originally from Tornio, Filppa, whose mother also fled with two children to safety as depicted in the story, was chosen for her local dialect and understanding of the narrative’s cultural background.

Filppa expressed her joy at being invited to participate in the play, feeling a strong connection to Liksom’s work. Interestingly, she captures the essence of a 14-year-old character at the age of 68, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

The backdrop of “Väylä” coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Lapland War, which saw over 100,000 people – along with numerous cattle – evacuated from the region. This historical context highlights the urgency of storytelling surrounding the war and its impact on local communities, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of such narratives today.