Show dance intensive groups

The purpose of the intensive group activities of the Helsinki Dance Institute is to offer students the opportunity to deepen their skills, to perform actively and perhaps even orient themselves in a professional direction. The activity gives talented children and young people the opportunity to learn more about dance as a living art form, as lively performance is a central part of the teaching. Studying in an intensive group requires precision and the ability to do more demanding repetitions than in regular classes. In intensive groups, the main focus of learning is on basic art education, and lessons in other dance forms are a very important part of the young person’s development. The group quickly forms a tight and safe environment that supports learning, where many friendships are born.

The members of the group attend the intensive group’s own dance classes twice a week and, depending on the age level, choose at least 1–2 elective weekly classes of ballet, show dance, contemporary dance or jazz dance. We offer intensive students a training package (2 x 90 min group’s own training class + 1–2 x freely chosen class/week) at a subsidized price.

During the school year, the groups participate in dance competitions and viewings that are considered suitable for each group. At the beginning of the autumn season, a joint dance camp for all intensive groups is organized.

Intensive groups of academic year 2024–25 

Pisarat 10–12 years (b. 2012–2014)
The group practices together 2 x 75–90 min per week show dance taught by the group’s  teacher Adalmiina Toivola, and in addition at least 1 x per week a freely chosen class from our schedule.

Pohjantähdet 12–14 years (b. 2010–2012)
The group practices together 2 x 90 min per week show dance taught by the group’s teacher Sarlotta Kalliosalo, and in addition at least 2 x a week freely chosen classes from our schedule.

New intensive group 12–15 v. (s. 2009–2012)
The group practices together 2 x 75–90 min per week show dance taught by the group’s  teacher Phet Haanpää, and in addition at least 2 x a week freely chosen classes from our schedule. tuntivalikoimasta.

Revolution 14–16 years (b. 2008–2010)
The group practices together twice a week 2 x 90 min show dance taught by the group’s teacher Wilma Mehtonen-Laiho and at least 2 x a week freely chosen classes from our schedule.

Velocés from 15 years (born 2009 and older)
The group practices together twice a week 2 x 90 min show dance taught by the group’s teacher Wilma Mehtonen-Laiho and at least 2 x a week freely chosen classes from our schedule.

Auditions for intensive groups in 2024

Due to high demand, we are establishing a new intensive group for 12–15 year olds (born 2009–2012) for the academic year 2024! There are still vacancies in the new intensive group, which will be filled with an audition in August.

Sat 10.8. supplementary audition for the new intensive group from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. in studio LEI6. Preparation and warm-up individually from 11 am.

Register here no later than Friday 9 August at 12 o’clock!

Audition takes place at Leipätehdas at Kaikukatu 4 A, Helsinki, floors 5–6.

We will notify the participants of the results to the email address provided during registration during week 33. Those selected for the group commit for the entire academic year 2024–25. Please note that the group’s first class will be held on Tuesday, August 13 and the selected student is expected to participate from the first week.

The trial dance lesson/audition consists of sections characteristic of a show dance lesson. It includes a warm-up and a technique section, which assesses the student’s coordination ability and musicality. The audition also evaluates the applicant’s own creativity, perseverance and teamwork skills.

Auditions for Pisarat, Pohjantähdet, Revolution and Velocés have closed for the academic year 2024–2025. The next auditions will be held in May or August 2025, depending on the need for additional students.