Every Feb. 28, Finns and Fennophiles everywhere honor the Finnish national epic, "Kalevala (Land of the Heroes)," compiled by Elias Lönnrot and published more than a century and a half ago.

There is particular excitement surrounding this year’s local celebration, for it marks the second musical adaptation from that source by Seattle writer Nick DiMartino.

His popular "Sampo (The Magic Mill)" was the highlight of the national FinnFest held on the University of Washington Campus in 1999.

DiMartino’s new work, "Troublemaker’s Mother," is derived from the story of “wanton lover boy” Lemminkäinen and his adoring and long-suffering mother.

This adaptation retains the classic elements of tragedy – pride, passion, betrayal, violence and death – while mining the humor beneath the somber surface.

In bringing this work to the stage, DiMartino is joined by composer Kim Douglass, director Lori Larsen and a cast of talented performers, including some returning from the "Sampo" production.

Performances of "Troublemaker’s Mother are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 26 and Feb. 27 and 3 p.m. on Feb. 27 and Fen. 28 in the Nordic Heritage Museum at 3014 N.W. 67th St.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $17 for museum members and $15 for students and seniors. Children 12 and under are free with accompanying adult. To purchase tickets, please call 206.789.5707 ext. 10.

"Troublemaker’s Mother" is produced by Finlandia Foundation Seattle Chapter – an organization dedicated to the dissemination of Finnish arts and culture in Greater Puget Sound.