Teatteri Mukamas’s beloved character survived the fire in Pirkkala and is returning to the stage
Hiirulainen ja talvi (Little Mouse and Winter) will premiere on October 23, 2026. That date marks exactly one year since the fire at the Pirkkala storage facility, where a large portion of Teatteri Mukamas’ property was destroyed. The facility housed decades’ worth of stage sets, puppets, and technical equipment.
Amidst the disaster, however, a touching encounter took place: “We had no idea we would find anything there,” recalls Katarina Stycz. “We were walking around the fire site in protective gear, lifting up burnt sets, equipment, and building debris. Then, on the third day after the fire, we saw a small light amidst the wreckage, and there was Hiirulainen in his own cardboard box. It was a happy encounter, and we felt that he wanted to continue his story…”
63,000 Spectators So Far
The immensely popular character Hiirulainen (Little Mouse) has starred in several different productions. Many also remember the character’s enchanting journey to Lapland in the 2022 Christmas calendar series.
Hiirulainen has already been seen by 63,000 audience members in productions such as Hiirulainen ja uudet luistimet, Hiirulainen sirkuksessa and Hiirulainen ja Suuri seikkailu. In addition, Hiirulainen’s video advent calendar series garnered over 73,000 views between 2020 and 2022.
The new autumn production Hiirulainen ja talvi will be performed at the theatre’s home stage in Pispala. The show is written and directed by Katarina Stycz, with a playful choreography designed by Ringa Aarimo. Alongside puppet theatre, the performance incorporates elements of dance and circus art. Joining Hiirulainen puppet—created by Emma Hanikka—on stage are Raisa Kekarainen, Minna Koponen and Liina Saarva.
While puppet theatre involves working with physical materials, the underlying essence lies in the joy of creation, imagination, and shared experiences.
“I hope the show inspires children to get moving and play outdoors. It’s wonderful to look forward to the coming winter together with Hiirulainen!” says Stycz.
Hiirulainen ja talvi – Premiere on October 23.
Hiirulainen was discovered on October 25, 2025.