Estonian Luminary Kristi Roosmaa to Illuminate TRUE NORTH 2025 in New York City

Kristi Roosmaa, an award-winning actress, singer, and producer, has carved a distinguished path from her early days in Estonia to the vibrant stages of New York City. Her multifaceted career is a testament to her unwavering dedication to the arts and her ability to seamlessly blend cultural heritage with contemporary performance. As she prepares to grace the stage at the TRUE NORTH 2025 event, audiences eagerly anticipate the depth and authenticity she brings to her craft.

Early Life and Artistic Foundations

Born and raised in Estonia, Roosmaa's artistic inclinations were evident from a young age. Her childhood was a harmonious blend of disciplined training and joyful exploration. She immersed herself in ballet for over six years and completed a seven-year piano program at the Children's Music School. At just 14, she emerged as a finalist in the esteemed Estonian children's television singing competition, "Laulukarussell," and performed the lead role in René Eespere’s musical “Wild Swan,” including a guest performance at the Estonian National Opera House. During her high school years, Roosmaa performed as the lead singer in the professional nine-piece P.P. Dixieland band and also served as a vocal coach for the girls' choir Elise. These formative experiences laid a strong foundation for her future pursuits in the performing arts.

Academic Pursuits and Transition to New York

Demonstrating a commitment to both intellectual and artistic growth, Roosmaa earned a law degree from Tartu University Institute of Law in Estonia. However, her passion for performance led her to the United States, where she pursued further studies in the arts. She graduated from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York and completed Broadway Dance Center’s international student program. This diverse educational background has endowed her with a unique perspective, allowing her to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry with both creativity and acumen.

Illustrious Career and Collaborations

Roosmaa's career is adorned with notable performances and collaborations that underscore her versatility and talent. She made her solo debut at the world-renowned Carnegie Hall, marking a significant milestone as the first Estonian musical theatre singer to achieve this honor. Her television appearances include a performance on "The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon," where she shared the stage with Residente featuring Bad Bunny. In the recording studio, Roosmaa has worked with esteemed composers such as Phillip Springer, renowned for the classic "Santa Baby," and Mark Barkan, known for "She's a Fool." Additionally, she has collaborated with Rolling Stones saxophonist Tim Ries, further showcasing her adaptability across musical genres.

Ventures into Production and Film

Beyond her on-stage performances, Roosmaa has demonstrated a keen aptitude for production. Her award-winning short film, "Wildflower," in which she both produced and starred, has garnered critical acclaim. The film tells the poignant story of a young immigrant singer pursuing her dreams in New York, mirroring aspects of Roosmaa's own journey. "Wildflower" had its world premiere at the FirstGlance Film Festival in Los Angeles, where it won the Audience Award in the Best Shorts Too category. Roosmaa's performance earned her the Best Actress award at the Oniros Film Festival and Top Shorts Film Festival, highlighting her compelling storytelling abilities both in front of and behind the camera.

She has also co-produced and shepherded “Kalevala the Musical’s”l through numerous developmental phases and played a key role in bringing “Singing Revolution: the Musical” from concept to production.

Cultural Advocacy and Leadership

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Roosmaa has played a pivotal role in promoting Estonian culture abroad. She served as the first Estonian Cultural Affairs Coordinator for the Estonian Ministry of Culture in New York from January 2013 to June 2017. In this capacity, she facilitated cultural exchanges, organized events, and worked to elevate Estonian arts on the international stage. Her efforts received official recognition from governmental institutions, underscoring her impact as a cultural ambassador.

Anticipated Performances at TRUE NORTH 2025

Roosmaa's upcoming participation in TRUE NORTH 2025 is highly anticipated. The event, scheduled for April 22, 2025, at the New York Estonian House, is a multidisciplinary arts showcase celebrating Nordic and Baltic heritage. As a featured solo artist, Roosmaa is expected to deliver performances that highlight her vocal prowess and deep connection to her roots. Additionally, her short film “Wildflower” will be shown at the event, held at the very location where parts of it were filmed — the Estonian House blue room.

A Legacy of Artistic Excellence

Kristi Roosmaa's journey from Estonia to the global stage exemplifies a harmonious blend of cultural pride, artistic excellence, and relentless determination. Her diverse body of work continues to inspire audiences worldwide, bridging cultural divides and showcasing the universal language of art. As she prepares for her performances at TRUE NORTH 2025, attendees can look forward to experiencing the depth and authenticity that have become hallmarks of Roosmaa's illustrious career.