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A day in the life of a dancer

Where
Almi Hall
Genre
For Children
intro
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Behind the scenes of ballet

The Youth Company of the Finnish National Ballet takes schoolchildren in grades 3–9 behind the scenes of ballet. How does a dancer’s day begin, and what happens in rehearsals? What does a professional career demand of a dancer, and how strong do dancers need to be? How many hours a day do they train? How can love be expressed through movement? What do dancing and strength training have in common?

A day in the life of a dancer session shows how rehearsals prepare the dancers for the ultimate goal, the evening’s performance. Hosted by étoile dancer Minna Tervamäki, the session offers both a glimpse of a ballet rehearsal and an overview of a dancer’s work.

The next A day in the life of a dancer sessions will be held on 27 and 28 October 2026.

Read more about Participation at the Opera and Ballet.
Kansallisbaletin nuorisoryhmä 2025-2026


14 young dancers

Established in 2013, the Youth Company of the Finnish National Ballet comprises 14 young dancers. Approximately quarter of the international group are Finnish, while the rest come from the Australia, the United States, France, South Korea, Japan, Ukraine, China, and Sweden. In addition to their own performances, the dancers of the Youth Company also participate in Main Stage productions with other dancers of the Finnish National Ballet. The Youth Company is funded by the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation

Learn more about the youth company

Enrolment

A day in the life of a dancer is intended mainly for primary school and lower secondary school pupils, but it is suitable for anyone interested in what a ballet dancer’s day involves and what the profession is like.

Sessions for schools are usually held at Almi Hall and occasionally beyond the walls of the Opera House, at separately agreed times and places. A day in the life of a dancer sessions are free of charge for schools.

See also