Man in a Room (2000) was created for Tero Saarinen by Carolyn Carlson, one of the most influential contemporary choreographers in Europe. Inspired by the life of American abstract expressionist painter Mark Rothko, the work explores man’s creative anxiety.

“Not only an exquisite performer, able to conquer the most traditional ballet fans with his terse technique, Saarinen is also a non-speaking actor whose face and eyes blow us directly into the dreams and nightmares of existence. Absolutely ingenious.”
– Alessandra Gallone, Dance Europe, December 2000 (UK)

“Mr. Saarinen's choreography looked constantly alive and original. The whole thing was quite extraordinary, a powerful match for the music.”
– John Rockwell, The New York Times, March 30, 2006

One of Finland’s leading cultural exports, Tero Saarinen Company claims influences ranging from Butoh and martial arts to classical ballet and Western contemporary dance. Known for their striking visual form and often combining dance with elements such as live music and multimedia, Saarinen’s works have won wide international acclaim.