In her opinion piece, feminist researcher and fat activist Saara Särmä expresses her outrage over the portrayal of Sancho Panza in the National Ballet's production of 'Don Quixote.' She argues that the character's depiction in a fat suit is a form of body shaming and contributes to fatphobia in ballet. Särmä raises questions about why such representations continue to exist in contemporary performances and wonders how the ballet can afford to alienate potential audience members.

Särmä's comments revolve around the idea that classic works like 'Don Quixote' can perpetuate outdated and harmful stereotypes, particularly when they fail to reflect a more inclusive and understanding societal view. She describes her feelings of exclusion as a viewer when presented with such an interpretation, suggesting that the arts should evolve to accommodate current perspectives and promote diversity rather than uphold archaic norms.

The column encapsulates a broader conversation about the intersection of art and societal values, highlighting the tensions between artistic expression and sensitivity towards modern audiences. Särmä's criticism can be seen as a call for more deliberate choices in how historical narratives are staged and a plea for inclusivity in the arts, aiming for a future where performances resonate with a wider range of experiences and identities.