Kuopio Dance Festival: Where movement meets magic – festival transforms a city

Kuopio Dance Festival is an annual celebration in the heart of Finland. It turns the city of Kuopio into a stage, blending artistic expression with a vibrant atmosphere that captivates locals and visitors alike. Step into a world where dance, culture, and community collide.

Every summer, Kuopio comes alive with rhythm, artistry, and boundless energy. Kuopio Dance Festival is the largest, oldest and most diverse dance arts festival in the Nordics. In 2025, the festival will be held for the 56th time. From 6-14 June, the festival will yet again transform the streets, parks and venues into a kaleidoscope of dance and creativity.

Dancers at Kuopio Dance Festival in 2022. Photo: Tiina Kilvensalmi / Kuopion kaupunki

This year’s program features a fantastic lineup, including Elle Sofe Company from Norway, performing Vástádus eana / The Answer is Land. This poignant piece draws from Sámi traditions, exploring humanity’s bond with nature through a blend of choreography, joik, and music.

For those who are not yet familiar with dance, the festival’s artistic director, Kenneth Kvarnström, recommends Sol Invictus by French-Algerian choreographer Hervé Koubi. The dancers originate from different parts of the world, including street dancers, battle champions, and acrobats from regions such as the Amazon and Siberia.

Il Posto Vertical Dance was performed at Kuopio Dance Festival in 2023. Photo: Vicente Serra

The week-long festival culminates in the gala, curated by Kvarnström. It gathers all the stars of dance to Kuopio, a magical evening dedicated to the joy of dance in all its forms. “There will be a range of styles, from ballet and flamenco to street dance, performed by brilliant dancers.,” promises Kvarnström. “The festival has been designed so that also those coming to Kuopio for a brief visit can get to experience a handful of performances.”

At Kuopio Dance Festival, movement is not confined to the stage; it spills into public spaces, connecting art with everyday life. The festival draws around 35,000 visitors annually, and the party atmosphere is tangible. “Kuopio Dance Festival is a city-wide celebration. The market square and streets fill with workshops, performances and talks,” says Salima Peippo, the festival’s executive director. The locals’ warmth and the stunning lakeside setting – along with the magic of the midnight sunshine of midsummer – create a perfect backdrop for this cultural extravaganza. “Whether you’re an avid dance lover or simply looking for a unique summer experience, this event offers something for everyone,” she concludes.

Elle Sofe Company will perform Vástádus eana – The answer is land at Kuopio Dance Festival in 2025. In addition to the performance, the group will bring the BIRRA concept to Kuopio, which includes workshops on dance and voice usage, post-performance discussions, and mentoring. Photo: Lars Opstad

Web: www.kuopiodancefestival.fi
Facebook: Kuopio Dance Festival Finland
Instagram: @kuopiodancefestival