The Formula for Happiness, or How to Become a Millionaire with a Dairy!

The resource scarcity of the Soviet era encouraged people to think creatively, popularising the phrase “washing machine made of beetroot”. This phrase also titles a do-it-yourself themed joint exhibition, showcased among other places at the Estonian Agricultural Museum. This spirit of creative thinking also pervades the museum’s performance, a production specially prepared for the European Capital of Culture year, depicting the lively adventures of Ülenurme manor lord Peeter Muna with electricity and cheese.

On August 15, 2024, the Estonian Rural Museum Foundation and the non-profit organisation Miksteater brought to the stage of the Agricultural Museum a delightful performance titled “The Formula for Happiness, or How to Become a Millionaire with a Dairy!”. The text of the performance is written by renowned Estonian humorist Peep Pedmanson, known for scripting the famous Estonian TV show “Vanad ja Kobedad”.

The play is inspired by the “survival arts” of the former owner of Ülenurme Manor, Peeter Muna. Born into a peasant family, Muna received an education and became a master cheesemaker, whose products were esteemed in both St. Petersburg and Western Europe. Additionally, he was active in politics and charity, teaching local farmers modern livestock breeding methods. The performance does not aim for historical accuracy but tells a story of innovation, development, and survival during the Estonian War of Independence through real characters and locations. The century-old story encourages contemporary audiences to think creatively and sustainably.  Expect humour, music, and serious themes.

One of the main projects of Tartu 2024, the European Capital of Culture, is the joint exhibition “Washing Machine Made of Beetroot” by three museums (the Estonian Agricultural Museum, the Estonian Road Museum and Tartu City Museum), showcasing Soviet-era creative thinking and DIY skills. Peeter Muna’s initiative and inventive ideas complement the exhibition concept perfectly!

The performance brings to a wider audience the clever and inspiring story of how Southern Estonia’s arts of survival have historically advanced local life and gained recognition even in distant parts of Europe. These century-old achievements continue to inspire today’s theatregoers!