International Summer Intensive of the Finnish National Ballet
welcome to the International Summer Intensive
We are excited to welcome you again at the state-of-the-art facilities of the Finnish National Opera and Ballet in Helsinki for this unique co-learning and networking event from 20 to 25 July 2026.
Combine artistic, technical, and personal growth with the excitement of exploring Finland’s vibrant capital and its rich cultural scene.
Helsinki, the pearl of the north, is a charming city renowned for its closeness to nature, safety, cleanliness, and its enchanting long summer days.
We are looking forward to welcoming you in July 2026.
Tervetuloa Suomeen! Welcome to Finland!
Follow us @fnob_summer_intensive
summer intensive
The 6th edition of the International Summer Intensive will take place from 20 to 25 July 2026.
Our program is thoroughly designed for participants aged 12–22, offering a week of intensive, collaborative learning to develop and refine ballet and dance skills for the next generation.
This year’s curriculum bridges tradition and innovation, blending classical and contemporary styles with a focus on diversity in dance and fostering versatility in aspiring dancers.
New in 2026: Ballet in Bloom
Ballet in Bloom, a fresh addition to our adult Summer Intensive offerings, invites dedicated amateur ballet enthusiasts to immerse themselves in an inclusive and uplifting environment without the pressure of a professional career.
Participants will enjoy ballet classes, repertoire training, character dance, and acting coaching, all taught by our esteemed international faculty.
Ballet in Bloom includes 3 evening sessions daily, 20–24 July 2026, from 17:00 to 21:00.
A minimum of five years of prior ballet training is recommended.
Please note: Ballet in Bloom requires at least 10 participants to take place.
how to apply
Application dates are 15 December 2025 – 30 April 2026.
Applicants attending a professional education program (e.g. students of a National or a Royal Ballet School) can enrol by filling out the application form and including a recommendation letter of their school’s director and/or current ballet teacher. Please attach a head shot photo, and a picture in 1st arabesque.
Applicants who are a member of a Company or Youth Company can enrol by filling out the application form and including their CV. Please attach a head shot photo, and a picture in 1st arabesque.
Applicants of private ballet schools can enrol by filling out the application form and need to include a video link (YouTube or VIMEO). More info under “video requirements” below. Please attach a headshot photo, and a picture in 1st arabesque.
For Ballet in Bloom a minimum of five years of prior ballet training is recommended. Applicants can enrol by filling out the application form and attaching a headshot photo. No video submission or recommendation letter is required.
A video with no introduction or fancy editing, consisting of the following performed in leotard and tights for women and tight-fitting dance attire for men:
- 3–5 minutes of barre work, incorporating both sides, danced in soft shoes.
- 3–5 minutes of center work that includes adagio, pirouettes, petit and grand allegro. Some pointe work for female applicants.
- Optional: a classical variation drawn from the standard repertoire, danced in pointe shoes by female applicants (this can be also from a performance).
tuition
accommodation
We are pleased to offer our Summer Intensive participants exclusive discounts at Töölö Towers, located in a 10 min walking distance to the Finnish National Opera and Ballet. Upon acceptance of your registration, you will receive a discount code for convenient and affordable accommodations.
Please note that all bookings will be managed directly by Töölö Towers, ensuring a seamless reservation process for your stay just minutes away from the Finnish National Opera and Ballet.
More info about Töölö Towers at their website.
contact
For further questions, please contact us under summer.intensive@opera.fi
Please add “LAST NAME First Name” in the subject line of your email.
pictures of the finnish national opera and ballet
disclaimer
A refund will only be possible in case a cancellation is made due to a force majeure reason or health problem, and a medical certificate is presented.
For all other cancellations made by 31.5.2026 an administrative cost of €250 will be deducted of the amount to be refunded.
In both cases, a refund must be applied for by 31.7.2026.
Tuition fees are be paid in oopperabaletti.fi online store. The online store accepts all the major cards (Visa, Eurocard, MasterCard) and online bank transfer. Tuition fees cannot be paid by invoice.
All participants are required to have accident insurance. Participants are not insured through The Finnish National Opera and Ballet. The organizer is not liable for any injuries and/or health problems.
The Finnish National Opera and Ballet has the right to make changes to the faculty and to the content of the course.
In the case of a cancellation due to force majeure, refund of the payment will be made. The Finnish National Opera and Ballet will not reimburse any additional expenses incurred.