Hirviniemi and Rantala reunite for three-night Christmas variety at Palatsi
Antti Hirviniemi and pianist Iiro Rantala reunite for a three-night Christmas variety show at Palatsi, mixing Hirviniemi’s Putous characters with Rantala’s comic solo-piano arrangements.
The Akun ja Iiron holiday show blends Hirviniemi’s Putous-era characters, including Marja Tyrni, Timo Harjakainen and Usko Eevertti Luttinen, with Iiro Rantala’s fast-paced solo piano arrangements and a roast in which the duo rib each other. Rantala reworks familiar Christmas songs into comic piano pieces. The performers stress the show is live variety, not straight standup or mere impressions.
They trace their friendship to work at the Tampere Workers' Theatre in 2007–08 and call Palatsi an ideal venue for evening entertainment. The show joins Palatsi's busy autumn programme Palatsi's autumn programme, Tamperelainen reports.
Hirviniemi addressed the 2023 controversy over sexually suggestive messages, saying the episode forced a pause in his acting career. He issued a public apology, sought professional help and said the episode prompted him to take greater responsibility for his behaviour. He thanked Rantala for steady support during the hiatus. "Iiro didn't stop believing in me and was there for me like a good friend should be," Hirviniemi said. Rantala said he always expected the duo would return to the stage to do what they do best and what audiences want to see.
Earlier coverage
Catch the full story over at Tamperelainen
