One of the aspects I find most engaging in performance art is when a show combines several creative disciplines, such as theatre and music or, in the case of Snowflake, theatre, clowning, and comedy.
Presented at Heldeke!, the show begins with a focused light at the back of the room, opposite the stage. From there, the character slowly emerges, holding in her hands an object the audience cannot quite identify. As she makes her way through the crowd, the performer playfully engages in crowd work, inviting guesses and discussion about the mysterious object. Throughout the performance, there is significant use of object work, as well as the construction of a narrative through a piece of thread that literally and metaphorically ties the action together.
The artist addresses themes of mental health, establishing a grounding point in a “broken nervous system” while guiding the audience in connection with the work of Dr. Big T. The performance touches specifically on trauma and the immediate reactions or responses it provokes. Importantly, due to the sensitive nature of these topics, the artist emphasizes that the show is not a form of therapy, but rather a personal artistic exploration.
The audience plays a central role in shaping the performance. Instead of being passive observers, they are invited into the narrative, creating a lighthearted and interactive atmosphere. This is facilitated by the thread, which becomes both a tool of connection and a symbol of the evolving relationship between performer and audience. An external recorded voice punctuates the performance, providing rhythm and pacing while opening space for reflection on mental health.
By the end, the artist circles back to express gratitude to the audience, giving the initial thread of the performance new meaning and a humorous twist.
I recommend this show to anyone seeking an interactive, participatory, and immersive experience. Snowflake offers a unique blend of playfulness and reflection, where the audience is not only watching but actively shaping the journey.
Snowflake can be seen for three more performances at Heldeke!, at 1900 on 6, 8, and 9 September. The 2025 Tallinn Fringe Festival runs through 18 September at venues around town, offering a variety of performance genres and styles.
Author: Isi Salcedo
I’m a stand-up comedian and comic artist from Santiago, Chile, now living in Tallinn, Estonia. I create stories that make people laugh, think, and feel, whether through my graphic novels like Diaries of an Au Pair or comedy shows like Flipping the 30s. I’m passionate about storytelling and exploring how art can connect us to emotions and experiences across cultures
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