The Fundamentalist first opened to rave reviews in Finland in 2006 and subsequently went on to win the prestigious Nordic Drama Award for Best Play in 2008. The Scandinavian American Theatre Co gave it it’s US premiere, last season at the New York International Fringe Festival, where it opened to rave reviews and was chosen as one of two highlights out of the festival’s 200+ shows by The New Yorker Magazine. This month it was remounted with Jens Rasmussen in the lead role for performances at Scandinavia House on Park Ave in NYC and at the Chekhov International Theatre Festival.
The Fundamentalist tells the story of Markus, a reformed Minister turned public critic of the church, is approached by Heidi, his former student and now a member of religious extremist sect, who wants to save Markus from going to hell. THE FUNDAMENTALIST is a suspenseful two-character drama that offers an astute and nuanced investigation of the inner workings of fundamentalist belief. It questions the appeal of fundamentalism next to modern-day pluralism and tolerance, and encourages us to reflect on our values, worldview, faith and human responsibility to each other.
Juha Jokela is one of Finland and Scandinavia’s most renowned modern writers. The Nordic Drama Award jury wrote: “His witty and surprising humor, compelling narratives and nuanced characterizations are tightly bound to the present moment. Whether focusing his sharp vision on the world of business or the spirit, he writes with deep understanding of the personalities involved.”
Scandinavian American Theater Company is the 2011 recipient of the American Scandinavian Society’s Honorary Cultural Grant. The company was founded in 2009 to promote the new generation of Scandinavian playwrights and produce innovative interpretations of the classics. SATC also produces the SATC Contemporary Scandinavian Reading Series at Scandinavia House, in which they present five staged readings annually of new Scandinavian plays. For more information, visit www.satcnyc.org.
