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As a key collaborator with Nordic Artists of New York (NANY), Telander is not only sharing her impressive body of work but also contributing to a groundbreaking movement that unites Nordic and Baltic artists in a celebration of art and community.
From Universal Music to Off-Broadway Stages
Telander's journey began with a record deal from Universal Music in 2003, launching a career that has encompassed writing, composing, and performing for radio, television, film, and theater. She is perhaps best known for her debut musical theater piece, Kalevala the Musical (for which she wrote the book, music, and lyrics). Selections from this ambitious work have been showcased at prestigious venues such as the United Nations, the New York Scandinavia House, the Estonian House New York, Helsinki's Kapsäkki Theatre, and the Signature Theatre Off-Broadway. The Kalevala the Musical concept album, released in 2022, has garnered international recognition, reaching audiences in over 80 countries and finding a devoted following both within and beyond the theater world.
Telander's career highlights are as diverse as her talents. She has performed alongside Residente and Bad Bunny on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, appeared as an actress on 30 Rock, and headlined her own singer-songwriter sets at legendary New York City venues like the Bitter End. Her voice-over work includes contributions to the film The Fifth Estate and major brands like Volvo. Beyond music, Telander is also a published poet; her collection of earth-themed poems, A Deep Blue Green Song, was published by Bookleaf Publishing in 2023, and Vol. 2 is on the way to be published later this year.
A Prolific Creator with a Bright Future
Telander's creative output shows no signs of slowing down. While continuing to develop Kalevala the Musical, she recently scored her first musical short film project, Quentin Garzón's Gray Land. She is currently working on two other musicals: Watcher in the Woods, a New Musical (with music by Telander and book and lyrics by Douglas Thompson), and another original musical that is still under wraps.
In the singer-songwriter realm, Telander has recently released the singles "Sandcastles," "Little Angel," and "For You to Know," all part of a larger plan for a full album, with details to be revealed soon.
Joining the NANY Collective
Telander's collaboration with Nordic Artists of New York is a natural fit, aligning her passion for Nordic culture and her commitment to artistic innovation. NANY, founded in 2024, is dedicated to uniting, elevating, and inspiring Nordic and Baltic artists, especially expats, who’ve made their home and life here, by bringing them opportunities to grow their artistic careers in New York City. It provides a vital platform for collaboration, resource sharing, and the creation of partnerships that bridge the gap between art and environmental action.
"I'm thrilled to be part of NANY," Telander shares. "It's an organization that truly values the contributions of Nordic and Baltic artists and provides a supportive community for us to thrive in New York City."
True North and Beyond
Johanna is excited to be part of NANY's first ever True North showcase. "I'm looking forward to celebrate art, nature and Nordic-Baltic unity at True North!" Says Johanna.
Telander's participation in True North 2025, NANY's flagship Earth Day event, promises to be a highlight of the program. Held at the historic New York Estonian House on April 22, 2025, True North will be an immersive experience showcasing a diverse range of Nordic and Baltic talent, including music, dance, visual arts, and multidisciplinary collaborations, while also highlighting local environmental initiatives.
For audiences, Telander's involvement in True North offers a chance to experience the artistry of a multifaceted creator at the peak of her powers. For Telander, it's an opportunity to contribute to a movement that celebrates her cultural heritage and her commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
Don't miss Johanna Telander 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.
