VALID (2026) Helsinki

Physical and Masque Theatre Performance

April 18, 2026

Luckan Helsinki, Finland

This captivating performance was crafted by the talented students of H.S. Fernandez's Physical Theatre Workshop, "Expressive Ensemble." Over the course of a year, this workshop explored the enchanting world of physical theatre, engaging participants in a variety of exercises designed to enhance their physical expressiveness. Together, they created an artistic project that boldly critiques the unrealistic beauty standards generated by an industry that often used them to oppress women.

The students were organized into four distinct groups, each developing a unique concept centered around the transformation of abstract ideas into physical expressions through stage symbolism. Under H.S. Fernandez's guidance, they wove a compelling narrative featuring a young girl grappling with the challenges of growing up in a society obsessed with "industrial and commercially-driven beauty standards." This environment stifles women's ability to cultivate a critical mindset and forge individual identities and personal aesthetics.

Through this physical and masque performance, the audience witnessed the girl's journey through various stages of growth. It illustrated her struggle with the disintegration of her self-identity and happiness, the relentless pressure to attain the "perfect" body, and the harsh judgments she faced based on her appearance instead of her intellectual capabilities. Ultimately, it highlighted the overwhelming societal pressure exerted by peers, who themselves are ensnared by a ruthless commercial beauty industry.

In the end, while the little girl may lose her innocence, she emerges as a woman who reclaims her identity and understands the true values of life: embracing her natural self. She discovers that beauty is not defined by gimmicks, brands, or products, but by her own authentic essence.

Director, Dramaturg, Producer

This is a 30-minute masque and physical theatre performance.
The project draws inspiration from a poignant clip featured in the television documentary "Who Are You Looking At?" which first aired on January 27, 1983, by the BBC in the UK. The video illustrates a girl's striking transformation of her physical appearance, aimed at both confronting and highlighting the prejudices that others hold based on her looks.
As old as this documentary is, it is surprisingly valid still in 2026.

Alexandra Ijäs
Jonna Löflund
Mariia Peshkova
Nina Laurla
Sofiia Shtefan
Oliver Sibayan

Eva Zapolnova - Make-up Artist (https://www.instagram.com/eva.makeup.pro/)

H.S.Fernandez - Director, dramatist, acting coach, producer.