Tackling the challenges of social interaction in a world dominated by digital communication, this thought-provoking piece of visual dance theatre blends choreography, sound design and live projection to comment on how technology has changed relationships over the last three years. Honing in on themes of encounter, communication, and interaction, real life couple Riikka and Antti Puumalainen combine contemporary choreography and sound design that utilizes human voice, everyday household sounds and both musical and abstract elements. A Couple of Humans is an interdisciplinary performance that delves into two fundamental questions: ‘Who am I?’ and ‘Who are we together?’

The piece that premiered in 2022 emphasizes visual design and movement, using physical theatre and dance to provoke inquiry into what makes us human in the first place, and how we have evolved as a species. In asking these questions, it shines a light on broad social changes and philosophical ideas, exposing how these are impacted by specific individuals, actions and relationships. Social interaction has dramatically changed due to the influence of social media. The big question behind all of this is how it affects human values and humanity in whole. 

A Couple of Humans is originally produced by Tsuumi Dance Theatre, JoJo Oulu Dance Centre and the working group in association with Pirkanmaa Dance Centre. In Finland the piece has been so far seen in Helsinki, Tampere, Turku and Oulu. A Couple of Humans had its international premiere with a run of 17 shows at Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2023. 

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Extraordinary!
– ScotsGay Arts

both fascinating and humorous … fun and engaging
– Kelly Apter, The Scotsman

A Couple of Humans skilfully offers an immersive journey that transcends the boundaries of a conventional show. It’s exploration into the twists and turns of life leaves a lasting impact.
– Caitlin Finnerty, Edinburgh Festivals Magazine

Duration: 45 min