New story-driven electronic music festival lights up Kuopio, Finland
Uniquely, this collaboratively built, open and inspiring cultural platform – which invites you to experience something new and meaningful – is woven together with the narrative of virtual artist Suru Bae. The character's evolving storyline, called Suru’s Saga, is also planned to be continued at future editions of the festival, providing a memorable and fascinating thread to enjoy as a returning attendee.
Suru Bae.
Making versatile use of Kuopio Harbour, the festival offers three exciting performance areas, where around 30 top Finnish and international electronic music artists will be showcased. As a development of Kuopio's Sunsets theme – familiar from previous years – the event adds further interest and cohesion with its one-of-a-kind combination of electronic music, immersive visual worlds and Suru Bae's multi-year narrative.
As part of the festival, the city's Lake Tourism Centre Luoto is set to become a central meeting point – featuring a stunning immersive environment and soundscape experience designed by Genelec. During the day, you can engage there in fulfilling activities focussed on sound and well-being, while in the evenings the space offers an exclusive gathering spot for invited guests and partners. Luoto’s architecture and natural lakeside surroundings provide the perfect setting for this special Genelec listening experience – where sound can be sensed and experienced with great depth, bringing fresh perspectives on music and shared moments.
Electric Sunsets is a natural extension of Genelec’s long-term commitment to supporting the arts and culture. We recognise that creativity, self-expression and shared cultural experiences enhance well-being and strengthen regional vitality. Culture creates meaning, gives space to diverse voices and builds a sense of belonging – and we want to be part of enabling that. Operating at the intersection of technology and art, we feel it is important for us to support creators and communities by providing environments and tools where ideas can evolve into sound, stories and experiences. One of the highlights of Electric Sunsets will surely be the Genelec DJ Studio – hosted by Suru Bae and Paint the Sound – which offers youth-focussed workshops at the festival, giving a platform for young talent to express their creativity.
“We joined this event in light of how it creates a new kind of cultural platform where electronic music, visual art and community naturally intersect. At this stage, the concept presents itself as an ambitious and distinctive event that brings together open, art-focussed daytime activities and immersive evening music culture into one cohesive narrative. We see significant potential for the festival to grow into an internationally recognised cultural event for the Kuopio region, one that strengthens local identity and highlights the connection between art, technology and people in an innovative way,” says Genelec CEO Siamäk Naghian.
Learn more about Electric Sunsets at: electricsunsets.fi
Festival Director Mico Lonka and Festival Founder Tatu Säisä at a press conference at Genelec Helsinki Experience Centre.