KIELO

The film Kielo (2025) is re-imagined from Janina Rajakangas’ stage work; Dancer, premiered at Kiasma theatre in 2023. 

The film is a collaboration between choreographer Janina Rajakangas and visual artist Sinem Kayacan. Prior to making the film, they had already an established working relationship, through creating visual materials for Janina’s earlier stage works. Sinem shot a video teaser for Dancer as well. 

Kielo Kivinen, the lead performer in the film Kielo, was also one of the performers in Dancer.

In the film Janina trys to understand how an ordinary situation raises emotions in our bodies and can then easily become dance. “I think we all have a poetic body, that dances when encouraged. It just needs to be given a chance to exist alongside the body that goes by the rules and is used to shy away from expression.”

“I first wanted to make a stage work and now a film that would give space to the everyday experiences of my teen daughter. We often talk about the physical and emotional environment she confronts at her school. It can be challenging for a young person to cope in a structure that is made on the basis that everyone can sit still and quiet for hours on end.”

“As an answer to the challenges, the film shows love and support between young people. Nearly every challenge can be outdone by love.” (Janina)

The film was premiered on Nowness on 28.2.2025 and can be watched at: KIELO

Main Credits:

Director, Choreographer: Janina Rajakangas  (IG @janinarajakangas)

Film Director: Sinem Kayacan (IG @sinemkayacan)

Lead Performer: Kielo Kivinen (IG @kielonerva)

Producer: Zodiak - Center for New Dance ( IG @zodiak_helsinki)