Tertyttäjä

Tertyttäjä is a Finnish term that refers to a female impersonator or drag performer who specializes in entertaining audiences by adopting exaggerated feminine personas. The practice of tertyttäjä has roots in traditional Finnish carnival and festive traditions, where cross-dressing and theatrical performances were common during celebrations like Midsummer and Christmas. Over time, the role evolved into a form of artistic expression, blending humor, music, and theatricality.

Tertyttäjä performances often involve elaborate costumes, makeup, and exaggerated mannerisms to create a comedic or satirical effect. While the term is primarily associated with Finland, similar traditions exist in other Nordic countries under different names, such as *kvitten* in Norway or *flicka* in Sweden. These performances were historically tied to seasonal festivals but have since expanded into broader entertainment contexts, including theater, cabaret, and modern drag shows.

In contemporary Finnish culture, tertyttäjä has been both celebrated and criticized. Some view it as a cherished part of folklore, while others have questioned its portrayal of gender roles. The tradition has also faced challenges due to shifting social attitudes toward gender and performance. Despite this, tertyttäjä remains a unique cultural phenomenon, reflecting Finland’s blend of tradition and evolving artistic practices.

Today, tertyttäjä performances are occasionally revived during festivals or cultural events, often as a nostalgic or satirical homage to the past. While no longer a widespread profession, the concept continues to spark discussions about gender, performance, and the preservation of cultural heritage.