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Samuel Harjanne

News Reviews

Here are the latest updates of what’s going on in my life. You can also find some press quotes from my latest works.

Photo by © Kalevi Rytkölä/Yle

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News

A Comedy Heist Hits the Stage at Helsingin Kaupunginteatteri!

A comedy about a bank robbery premieres at Helsingin Kaupunginteatteri on 5 February 2026, bringing high-energy humor, escalating chaos, and precision-timed farce to the stage. Directed by Samuel Harjanne, the production marks his first venture into directing farce, a genre where rhythm is everything and timing is king.

At its core, the show is a playful, fast-moving comedy: a bank robbery that spirals hilariously out of control. What begins as a plan quickly unravels into a cascade of misunderstandings, disguises, and split-second decisions. Harjanne’s background in directing musicals subtly supports the production’s pacing and ensemble precision, lending extra momentum to the farce. With his signature sense of theatrical spectacle and timing, the performance blends classic farcical tradition with contemporary flair.

Audiences can expect an evening of laughter, surprises, and finely tuned ensemble performance: a heist where the real payoff is pure comedy.

News

Cast announced for Tampereen Työväen Teatteri’s Wicked!

On February 2, 2026, Tampereen Työväen Teatteri announced the cast of its upcoming production of Wicked at a press event in Tampere. The reveal confirmed the performers leading one of the season’s most anticipated musicals.

Yasmine Yamajako will appear as Elphaba opposite Nomi Enckell as Glinda.

The principal cast also includes Timo Kahilainen as the Wizard, Petra Karjalainen as Madame Morrible, Topias Keskitalo as Fiyero, Sofia Mustaniemi as Nessarose, Vili Saarela as Boq, and Jyrki Mänttäri as Doctor Dillamond.

The production will premiere on September 3, 2026.

News

Defying Gravity in Tampere!

We are thrilled to announce that Samuel Harjanne will direct Wicked at Tampereen Työväen Teatteri, with the very same creative team that is currently enchanting sold-out audiences with Disney's Beauty and the Beast at the same theatre.

Following the phenomenal success of Disney's Beauty and the Beast, this powerhouse creative team now turns its magic toward one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Wicked will premiere on September 3, 2026, with rehearsals beginning already in February 2026.

The cast will be revealed in early 2026, and we can hardly wait for this journey to begin. The road to Oz is just around the corner, and the excitement is already building.

Get ready to defy gravity!

News

Samuel Harjanne directs his first comedy at Helsingin Kaupunginteatteri!

Diving into the world of farce!

Director Samuel Harjanne is taking on a new kind of challenge, his very first comedy!
Comedy About A Bank Robbery by Mischief Comedy will premiere at Helsingin Kaupunginteatteri on February 5th, 2026.

Known for his bold and heartfelt musical direction, Harjanne now steps into the fast-paced world of farce with great excitement. This new production promises laughter, chaos, and pure joy from start to finish, brought to life by a brilliant creative team and a cast filled with top Finnish comedy talent.

The production is based on the hit comedy by Mischief Comedy, the same creative minds behind The Play That Goes Wrong. This Finnish premiere marks an exciting new chapter in Harjanne’s directing career, combining his signature energy, precision, and humor in a fresh and wildly entertaining setting.

News

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Premieres at Tampereen Työväen Teatteri!

Pure Disney Magic!

On October 22, 2025, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast had its grand opening on the Main Stage of Tampereen Työväen Teatteri, and the magic was undeniable. ✨

Belle (Yasmine Yamajako) and Beast (Matti Leino).

Directed by Samuel Harjanne, this beloved Disney classic came to life in a breathtaking new production that has already enchanted its opening night audience. The premiere concluded with a standing ovation, as both audiences and early reviewers praised the production’s stunning visuals, heartfelt performances, and captivating stagecraft.

Lumière (Antti LJ Pääkkönen) conducting the cast in Be our guest!

Harjanne Company extends its deepest gratitude to the extraordinary cast, ensemble, artistic team, and the entire Tampereen Työväen Teatteri staff for their remarkable work and dedication. Together, they have created a production that radiates creativity, emotion, and pure theatrical magic.

Mrs.Potts (Petra Karjalainen), Cogsworth (Hiski Vihertörmä) and Chip (Lucas Aidoo).

Harjanne Company is proud to collaborate once again with Tampereen Työväen Teatteri in bringing Disney’s timeless “tale as old as time” to Finnish audiences, a story that continues to inspire, move, and delight. 🌹

Let the magic continue!

Gaston (Jonas Saari) with Silly Girls (Viola Kause, Rosa Lindblom and Marissa Lattu). Le Fou (Antti Lang) admiring in the background.

News

Rehearsals for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast have begun in Tampere!

The creative team, cast and the whole crew have been hard at work for several weeks now, and rehearsals for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast are progressing beautifully.

With such a strong ensemble and artistic team, this production marks TTT-Theatre of Tampere’s largest musical to date.

Lighting Designer Eero Auvinen, Set Designer Peter Ahlqvist and Director Samuel Harjanne.

Music Director Marko Hilpo, Petra Pääkkönen (Mrs. Potts), Viola Kause (Cast Member), Emilia Keskivinkka (Cast Member) and Yasmine Yamajako (Belle).
Photos :Matti Rajala

Director Samuel Harjanne is excited to bring fresh ideas and vision to this beloved classic, guiding this magical production toward a spectacular premiere.

Stay tuned, this journey is only just beginning, and something truly spectacular is on its way. Soon, the tale as old as time will come to life on stage in Tampere!

Matti Leino (Beast), Antti Lang (LeFou), Pihla Pohjolainen (Babette) and Yasmine Yamajako (Belle).
Photos: Matti Rajala

Choreographer Jari Saarelainen, Assistant Music Director Tony Sikström.
Cast Members Rosa Herpiö, Heidi Kiviharju (Madame de la Grande Bouche) and Oskari Jauhiainen.
Photos :Matti Rajala

News

Annie Returns to Folketeateret – Directed by Samuel Harjanne

The beloved holiday musical Annie is making its triumphant return to the Folketeateret stage in Oslo! Following multiple successful seasons, audiences can once again look forward to a heartwarming blend of music, laughter, and touching moments — all wrapped in true theatrical magic.

Ingrid Gjessing Linhave reprises her acclaimed role as the (very reluctantly) responsible Miss Hannigan, promising sharp wit and unforgettable stage presence.

Directed by Samuel Harjanne, this production continues to capture the spirit of hope and joy that makes Annie the perfect family tradition for the holiday season in Norway!

News

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Opening Night is here!

July 8th, 2025, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast premieres at the legendary Det Kongelige Teater in Copenhagen, Denmark!

Directed by Samuel Harjanne, this production marks his directorial debut in his home country, in collaboration with Lion Musicals. Bringing this timeless story to life on one of the most historic stages in Scandinavia is a true honour.

Beauty and the Beast is a celebration of transformation, love, and humanity, told through stunning music, powerful performances, and unforgettable stagecraft.

We wish to extend our deepest thanks to the entire creative team, cast, crew, and everyone who has been part of this beautiful journey. Your talent, dedication, and artistry have made this production truly magical.

Let the tale as old as time begin!

News

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Rehearsals Began in Copenhagen!

On Monday, 19 May 2025, marked the beginning of rehearsals for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Skønheden og Udyret) in Copenhagen, Denmark — directed by Samuel Harjanne. The production is presented in collaboration with Lion Musicals and Live Nation Denmark, and will premiere on 8 July 2025 at the prestigious Kongelige Teater, Gamle Scene.

This musical marks a significant milestone for Samuel, as it is his first time directing in his second home country, Denmark. With deep excitement and heartfelt anticipation, he steps into this beloved tale of love, transformation, and inner beauty — themes that continue to resonate across generations and cultures.

"Beauty is found within..." — a message that lives at the very heart of this story, and one Samuel is thrilled to bring to life on the Danish stage.

The Cast of Disney's Beauty and the Beast.

Following its premiere in Copenhagen, the production will embark on a national tour across Denmark, bringing this timeless classic to audiences throughout the country.

News

Harjanne Company Ltd is growing! We welcome two new team members!

Elisabet Petsalo joins us as Opera Coordinator, focusing on developing our work on the opera field. Tuukka Raitala steps in as Development Coordinator, supporting the future growth of Harjanne Company Ltd.

They join our existing team of CEO Samuel Harjanne and Project Coordinator Henri Sarajärvi — and together, we can't wait to see what the future holds for Harjanne Company Ltd. with this new team on board.

The future is looking bright and full of promise!

We began this new chapter with a team retreat in Copenhagen, hosted by our CEO Samuel Harjanne. The future looks promising, and we’re looking forward to what we can build together with this new team!

Review Quote

“Songs performed with excellent musicianship, wild choreography and the most spectacular costumes.” 

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (2025) / Stephanie Mielnicki, Bornibyen.dk  9/7/2025

Review Quote

“The recipe for nearly the perfect musical for the whole family can be seen at the Royal Theatre right now.” 

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (2025) / Bo Dalum, Kulturbunkeren.dk  9/7/2025

Review Quote

“Wow! It was an absolutely fantastic experience, both touching, funny, and visually impressive. The music was a huge delight! the choreography was well executed. It all felt international and ambitious.” 

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (2025) / Nikoline Brix, Appetize.dk 9/7/2025

Review Quote

"This was worth it. Risto Räppääjä ja kaksoisolento is one of the most dynamic films in the series. In Kaksoisolento, Kerkko Koskinen’s music and the extended musical sequences, guided by Harjanne, bring a positive energy to the film."

Risto Räppääjä ja kaksoisolento (2025) / Juha Rosenqvist, film-o-holic.com 14/2/2025

Review Quote

With Harjanne’s direction that the series truly becomes a film musical. The songs are now woven into the story and used to deepen the characters. In a film musical, it is crucial that musical numbers are not just isolated performances but serve the narrative. Kaksoisolento succeeds in this perhaps better than any previous Räppääjä film."

Risto Räppääjä ja kaksoisolento (2025) / Juha Rosenqvist, film-o-holic.com 14/2/2025

Review Quote

With great confidence, I can state that Samuel Harjanne's first Räppääjä film can indeed be considered a success. Out of all the Risto Räppääjä films so far, this one stands out as the most accomplished.

Risto Räppääjä ja kaksoisolento (2025) / Hannu Björkbacka, Keskipohjanmaa 21/2/2025

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