Performing arts Archives

From Finland with laughter: Ismo turns cultural quirks into comedy gold

Finnish comedian Ismo Leikola translates humour across cultures, making comedic observations about even the most mundane exchanges. His newest endeavour brings music into the act.

Arts & culture Circus

Open your eyes to the daring, quirky world of Finnish circus

Amaze! Tales and Magic of Circus, an exhibition at the Theatre Museum in Helsinki, traces the history of Finnish circus through danger, dark humour, endurance and the thrill of doing the impossible.

Arts & culture Music

Celebrating a century of jazz in Finland

Many early jazz gigs on Finnish soil took place in gritty sailors’ bars. Jazz went on to earn a fervent following. The century-long history of jazz in Finland inspires a cavalcade of special events in 2026.

Arts & culture Performing arts

Finnish contemporary circus piece Tempo tours Venice, Singapore and more

Kalle Nio’s visually striking Tempo is enjoying international attention, including a spot at Venice’s Biennale Danza. It’s the first Finnish performance at the Venice event in over 20 years.

Arts & culture Music

Meet Ida Elina, Finland’s modern kantele virtuoso

When a Northern Finnish child picked up a kantele mostly to annoy her sister, no one imagined she would become one of the instrument’s boldest contemporary voices.

Arts & culture Culture

The northern Finnish city of Oulu puts big ideas into action

This year’s must-visit destination? Look north to Oulu, the Finnish city that is European Capital of Culture in 2026.

Life & society Wellbeing

Finnish artists bring happiness to seniors in new companion programme

A new cultural initiative in Finland is opening doors to meaningful artistic encounters for seniors.

Arts & culture Webpick

Finnish writer Saara Turunen’s work plays on new stages in Helsinki and Germany

Saara Turunen’s newest play opens in Helsinki, followed by the German version’s premiere in Hannover, with the Finnish author directing both versions herself.

Performing arts