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As a collaborator with Nordic Artists of New York (NANY), Silén is not only furthering her own artistic aspirations but also contributing to a vibrant movement that unites Nordic and Baltic artists in a shared celebration of creativity and community.
A Childhood Filled with Music
Silén's love for music began early. Growing up in Espoo, just outside of Helsinki, she was singing before she could speak, a testament to her innate talent. She participated in various children's choirs, and at the age of 12, she landed her first lead role as Pippi Longstocking at Finns Sommarteater (summer theatre), foreshadowing a career dedicated to the stage.
As a teenager, Silén's interests expanded to pop music. She performed in a show group, wrote her own songs, and competed in the Melodi Grand Prix at the young age of 14. Her talent quickly caught the attention of Helsinki Records, where she worked as a demo and background singer. In 2011, she contributed her vocal skills as a backup singer in the Euroviisut (Eurovision Song Contest) semifinals and finals.
Discovering Musical Theatre
Silén's path took a decisive turn during her first year of high school when she played Mimi in the musical Rent at Sandels Musik- och Kulturskola. This experience ignited a passion for musical theatre, setting her sights on a career in the performing arts. She pursued further training through courses like "West End Stage" in London and "Acting for Musical Theatre: Summer School" at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
After high school, Silén's talent earned her a position in the ensemble of Jesus Christ Superstar at Åbo Svenska Teater, where she was the youngest member of the company. This early professional experience solidified her commitment to the craft.
Honing Her Skills and Building a Career
In 2014, Silén began her formal musical theatre training at Balettakademien in Gothenburg, Sweden. During her studies, she played Claire in Ordinary Days and wrote the script for the school's Christmas production at the City Theatre in Gothenburg. She then pursued a BFA in musical theatre at the Academy of Music and Drama, training under renowned instructors and taking extra dance classes to further refine her skills.
Her internship in On the Town at Spira, Smålands Musik och Teater, where she played Lucy Schmeeler and covered Claire, provided valuable professional experience. In her final-year production, she took on the role of Marmee in Little Women, showcasing her versatility and stage presence.
Before even graduating, Silén landed the coveted role of Mary Poppins at Svenska Teatern in Helsinki, a production that garnered critical acclaim and audience adoration. She then played Esmeralda in the Finnish premiere of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Tampere City Theatre.
During the theatre shutdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic, Silén focused on her own music, recording her first EP with producer Toivo Hellberg, which was released in 2021. That same year, she performed as Meg Giry in two sold-out performances of Love Never Dies at the Finnish National Opera and Ballet. Before moving to New York, she starred in the musical comedy Forever Young (Evigt Ung) and played Rizzo (and understudied Sandy) in an arena production of Grease.
Joining the NANY Family
Silén's move to New York to pursue graduate studies marks a new chapter in her already impressive career. Her collaboration with Nordic Artists of New York aligns perfectly with her passion for performance and her desire to connect with a vibrant artistic community. NANY, founded in 2024, is dedicated to uniting, elevating, and inspiring Nordic and Baltic artists in New York City, providing a platform for collaboration, resource sharing, and advocacy.
"I'm so grateful for the opportunity to be part of NANY," Silén says. "It's a community that celebrates the unique contributions of Nordic and Baltic artists, and I'm excited to collaborate and grow alongside my fellow creatives." Looking Ahead Josefin is looking forward to be part of NANY's True North. "I can't wait to meet and connect with other Nordic and Baltic artists and audience at True North!" Says Josefin. True North and Beyond
Silén's participation in True North 2025, NANY's flagship Earth Day event, adds another exciting dimension to the program. Held at the historic New York Estonian House on April 22, 2025, True North will be an immersive showcase of Nordic and Baltic talent across various art forms, while also highlighting local environmental initiatives.
For audiences, Silén's involvement in True North represents a chance to witness the artistry of a rising star in musical theatre. For Silén, it's an opportunity to contribute to a movement that celebrates her cultural heritage and her commitment to artistic excellence.
Don't miss Josefin Silén at True North 2025 on April 22, 2025, at the New York Estonian House. Learn more about NANY's mission and events at www.nordicartistsofnewyork.com.
