When: October 13, 2025, 14:00–17:00
Where: Minervatori, Siltavuorenpenger 5 A, Helsinki
This seminar brings together leading researchers and practitioners to examine how theatrical and artistic approaches can enhance social work encounters, promote participation, and strengthen democratic engagement.
The seminar will feature a playback theatre performance by doctoral researcher Petra Malin and the community theatre ensemble of Q-teatteri, as well as a lecture by Professor Peter O'Connor (University of Auckland, New Zealand). The playback performance is based on Petra Malin's doctoral dissertation, which will be examined at the University of Helsinki on October 10, 2025. O'Connor, who will be visiting Finland as her opponent, is a globally recognized researcher in applied theatre, whose expertise lies in researching and experimenting with the potential of the arts in social change, both in New Zealand and internationally.
The event includes opportunities for professional networking. The program will be conducted in Finnish and English.
Participation is free of charge but please confirm your attendance by October 1st 2025 via this link.
Program
14.00 Opening words: Emphasising Creative Social Work, Doctor of Social Sciences/ Docent in social policy Harry Lunabba
14:05 Tarinateatteriesitys: Väitöskirjatutkija Petra Malin ja Q-teatterin yhteisöteatteri
Muuri murtuu - taidelähtöinen sosiaalityö osallisuuden ja demokratian edistäjänä (Playback theatre performance. The performance will be mainly in Finnish, but main points will be summarized in English.)
15.05 Break
15.20 How might the arts make life bearable in a time of constant crisis? Professor Peter O'Connor, University of Auckland
16.50 Closing words: Arts and creativity for social work practice, Professor Emerita Ilse Julkunen