Ajatar Freezes Time in the Delta Life Show

The Delta Life show during the last weekend of August promises magnificent dance art. The most intense moment in the slowness of this nuanced performance is delivered by dance artist Heli-Maria Latola in the role of Ajatar.

“Ajatar isn’t some superhero character. It isn’t particularly big or grand, but rather a bit like any of us — a small cog in the wheel,” Latola describes. “Even though it has the power to freeze time, it doesn’t do so alone through magic, but by bringing people together.”

Ajatar originates from another era, one free from all the hectic bustle we experience here.

“Ajatar’s role is to act as a sort of mirror for people. When people see goodness in Ajatar, it evokes compassion both toward oneself and others,” Latola explains.

From London to Lapland and Back to Oulu

Oulu-born Latola’s dance journey began when her mother signed her up for dance classes at age seven. Every year, Latola thought about quitting, but her love for performing kept her going. She eventually advanced to competitive groups and later enrolled in a dance-focused high school, moving to live on her own in a different town. After high school, higher education studies in dance art in London called to her.

“After my four-year degree, I returned to Finland. I was searching for my place in Lapland and Kainuu, and through many twists and turns, I ended up back in Oulu,” Latola says.

Although it was performing that kept Latola engaged in dance as a child, the situation has since evolved. Today, she enjoys starting the creative process and immersing herself in it far more.

“The best part is the people. At times, the work is so deep and probing that you get to know people really well. Dance has led to many wonderful friendships.”

Delta Life Is Like a Bag of Pick-and-Mix Candy

Working on Delta Life has been exciting for Latola in many ways. Among other things, the music of Delta Life features many different rhythms and soundscapes to which movements have had to be adapted. The stage built over water also creates unique challenges, and a lot happens on stage simultaneously.

“In terms of schedule, everything happens really fast. We only have about a week to rehearse on the actual stage,” Latola notes.

Latola compares the Delta Life show to a bag of pick-and-mix candy.

“It has a bit of everything. There are chewy toffees, sour fruit candies, salty liquorice, and so on.”