In this senior course you are invited to explore play and dance emerging from the imagination. We explore dance as a form of radical play – a journey through different realities, both alone and together.
In this course, led by choreographer and dance artist Virva Talonen, emotions and sensory experiences spark inner movement, shaped by the space around us and the presence of others. Each person carries unique pathways within themselves, weaving between their inner and outer worlds. Our dancing leaves traces – in the air and on the floor, in the heart, spine, brain and skin, and in other dancers.
Each class begins with exercises focusing on alignment, strength and flexibility. From there, we move into improvisation tasks that encourage you to explore your own movement. We also engage in group exercises centred on movement and dance arising from interaction.
The classes are built around a variety of tasks, which you are free to approach from your own place of experience. No previous dance experience is required. Instruction is available in both Finnish and English.
Virva Talonen has worked as a choreographer, performer and teacher in Finland and internationally since 2005. Her artistic practice centres on the theme of play.
As a choreographer, Virva is inspired by the essence of humanity: the contradiction between fragility and strength, the real and the imagined. As a teacher, she strives to create an open and respectful environment where each student is free to dance from their own place of experience and ability.
Virva’s latest works include Hetki (Moment, 2025, Pensselitehdas, Porvoo), Portable Home SA (2023, Flatfoot Dance Company, South Africa), Nothing Personal (2023, JOMBA! Festival, South Africa) and PLAY (2023, Zodiak).
