Business as Usual

Mehis Pihla's play “Rahamaa” (Moneyland), in an English translation entitled “Business as Usual” 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.

The project was a part of the European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024 main programme.

The translator is Adam Cullen.

“Moneyland” premiered on June 6, 2024 in Tartu (directed by Hendrik Toompere jr).

The book includes a couple of dozen black and white photos of the production (Heikki Leis). The book was designed by Kert Lokotar and edited by Ene Paaver.