The Helsinki-based theatre company Quo Vadis is strengthening its operations by investing in accessibility and community-building at its forthcoming performance venue, QV UG – Quo Vadis Underground. Ritvanen brings to the theatre their expertise from both the fields of performance and visual art, as well as from grassroots community work.
Quo Vadis Theatre has chosen producer and curator Sanna Ritvanen as its first Community Coordinator. The selection panel was particularly impressed by Ritvanen’s motivation to enhance diversity and accessibility within Helsinki’s art scene, as well as their passion for development work and their experience in managing large-scale projects. Ritvanen took up the post in September 2025.
“It was truly inspiring to hear Ritvanen’s views on the need for renewal in the performing arts field, from the perspectives of both artists and audiences. Their goals were fully aligned with Quo Vadis’s strategy. Like us, they are driven by combining uncompromising art, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and an inviting, non-elitist audience culture,” says Theatre Manager Louna-Tuuli Luukka.
Sanna Ritvanen
Sanna Ritvanen is a producer and curator working across the fields of visual and performance art. They have previously worked with the Mustarinda Association and as part of the curatorial collective Porin Kulttuurisäätö. From 2022 to 2025, they served as Project Coordinator of Kulkue, a three-year joint initiative by Baltic Circle, ANTI Festival and Hangö Teaterträff. Currently, Ritvanen works as Assistant Curator and Producer at Baltic Circle until the end of 2025, and as producer for performance artist Teo Ala-Ruona. Central to their work are cross-sectoral collaboration, openness and curiosity.
“I feel truly inspired about the launch of the QV UG project! It gives me the opportunity to work long-term with issues that matter deeply to me and are aligned with my values, while also learning a great deal – none of which can be taken for granted in today’s world. I value the vision and experience of the Quo Vadis team, and I can’t wait to see what we will achieve together with the whole team, as well as with future partners and artists yet to be met. Helsinki deserves a performance venue like QV UG,” says Ritvanen.
About Quo Vadis Theatre
Founded in 1985, Quo Vadis Theatre celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. The company has established its own venue in the Hermanni district of Helsinki. Its long touring tradition continues through international co-productions and guest performances across Finland.
About QV UG – Quo Vadis Underground
QV UG – Quo Vadis Underground is a new performance venue concept in Helsinki’s Hermanni district. Based on a strong artistic vision and the needs of the local performing arts field, QV UG is a future-oriented project. It will serve as a guest stage and multidisciplinary event space, where the theatre seeks to build a community-driven audience culture grounded in radical hospitality. The project, funded by the Kone Foundation and the City of Helsinki, focuses on uncompromising artistic content and community engagement.
For further information, please contact:
Louna-Tuuli Luukka, Theatre Manager
📧 📞 0453256218
Krista Mäkinen, Executive Producer
📧 📞 0503035029
Photo: Emma Suominen
Links: https://quovadis.fi