Business As Usual

Eesti Draamateater

Written by Mehis Pihla
Directed by Hendrik Toompere jr

Business As Usual (orig. Rahamaa) is a gripping narrative inspired by the money laundering scandals that rocked Estonian banking.

At its core, the story revolves around a young man from the Tartu suburb of Annelinn. Through connections, he lands a job in the foreign banking department of a prestigious capital bank. The department’s primary clientele comprises Eastern Bloc oligarchs. Business thrives, with the services of the Scandinavian bank branch being as secure as “swissarskaya”, as secretive as an “offshornaya” account, and as close as “petersburskaya”.

As the number of clients and turnover skyrockets, the protagonist finds himself entangled in a world where he must navigate encounters with oligarchs, prostitutes, and security guards. Adventures unfold in luxurious ski resorts across Europe and the vast expanse of Russia. This tale is seasoned with dark humour, portraying a reality where cash isn’t carried in briefcases but in suitcases with wheels.

The play provides a unique glimpse into a world accessible only to the super-rich, shedding light on how money laundering has influenced the politics of Western countries for decades. It delves into the complexities of giving up money of shadowy origins. Based on meticulously researched documentary materials from press publications and extensive interviews, Business As Usual offers a compelling exploration of a global issue that continues to shape our society.

Business As Usual premiered in Tartu in June 2024, and the project was a part of the European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024 main programme. It was performed to sold-out audiences in Tallinn in August and September 2025. Tampere Theatre Festival is its first international visit.

The visit is supported by the Estonian Embassy in Helsinki, the Estonian Ministry of Culture, and the Majaoja Foundation.