
language: Finnish
KAARLE HALME
HENKILÖT:
MARTTA
MARTTA
ELINA
MARTTA
ELINA
ELINA
MARTTA
A quiet evening in a 1870s Finnish croft opens the scene, where the crackle of a single candle and the aroma of fresh bread set the stage for a slice of rural life. The play captures a moment of ordinary conversation among Simuna, his children Elina and Heikki, and a handful of neighbours, letting listeners hear the rhythm of work, humor, and worry that defined a generation on the brink of change. Though rooted in domestic details, the dialogue hints at broader currents—early education efforts, the stir of temperance ideas, and the first whispers of a national awakening—making the piece feel both intimate and historically resonant.
The characters are drawn with plain, vivid strokes: Simuna, a weather‑worn farmer; Elina, a gentle young woman; Heikki, trying to adopt a tougher façade; and the sly, ever‑plotting Perttu, whose mischief reflects the tensions between tradition and the emerging social movements. Their banter carries a mix of affection, frustration, and subtle critique, inviting listeners to sense the layered world of a community poised between old customs and new aspirations. This one‑act work offers a warm, accessible glimpse into Finland’s past, perfect for anyone who enjoys character‑driven drama and a touch of historical atmosphere.
Language
fi
Duration
~27 minutes (26K characters)
Release date
2025-05-25
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1864–1946
A pioneer of Finnish theater and one of its early screen storytellers, these works come from a writer who moved easily between the stage, the page, and the young film industry. His stories often drew on everyday Finnish life while bringing a strong feel for dialogue and performance.
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