State House in Jyväskylä to host cultural events after recent restoration

The State House in Jyväskylä, designed by Alvar Aalto, is approaching its 100th anniversary. After being restored to its original grandeur, the main hall has remained empty for over a year. Now, with Arto Hakanen, who oversees the Old Courtyard of Toivola and the Old Parsonage, expressing his admiration for the venue, the hall is set to come alive again. Initially hesitant to respond to property owners’ invitations, Hakanen changed his mind after visiting the hall and recognizing its cultural potential.

Hakanen is now taking charge of the cultural and restaurant services for the hall. In its first phase, the venue will host performances by Theater Europe Four, Jyväskylä Symphony, and pianist-conductor Lasse Hirvi with guest artists. The initial public events are scheduled for December.

Constructed in 1929, the State House was envisioned as a multifunctional space, originally intended for the Civil Guard. It also housed a bank, market hall, cinema, restaurant, assembly hall, and residences. After the Civil Guard’s disbandment in 1934, the building became state-owned and was renamed State House, serving as a post office.

Hakanen describes the hall’s new name, “Cultural Shelter,” emphasizing the need to protect culture. It accommodates between 150 and 300 guests, offering a significant addition to the city’s event spaces.

Both local artists and management expressed their excitement about the venue’s acoustics and size, which cater well to chamber music concerts and dances. While there is no kitchen, catering for intermissions and meals will be arranged by Hakanen to minimize waste and ensure quality service.