NEWS

EXCITING COLLABORATION !

Whirling Dance Workshop for Circus Artists and Hoop Dancers

We are thrilled to announce a new and exciting collaboration between Whirling Arts and Vanne Tanssi Association, which will bring the art of whirling to a whole new audience for the first time.

On January 18th, Safa Solati, the instructor of whirling dance at Whirling Arts had a whirling dance performance at Light Carnival event at Tiivistämö  with her LED light whirling skirt that captivated and mesmerized the audience. This encouraged the Vanne Tanssi association to reach out to propose and organize a whirling dance workshop for their members and non-members in spring.

Photo : Ahti Kannisto

On April 5th, 2025, we will be hosting a special Whirling Dance Workshop for circus artists and hoop dancers. This unique workshop will take place at Lauttasaari from 11:00 to 13:00, offering participants the opportunity to explore the meditative and transformative practice of whirling in a fresh, dynamic context and create possibilities to combine whirling with other dance and art forms.

At Whirling Arts, one of our primary goals is to not only promote and support the tradition of whirling dance in Finland, but also to seek out meaningful collaborations with artists and organizations whose work resonates with the theme of rotation or rotary motion. In this case, whirling acrobatics and hoop dancing. The cyclical nature of these art forms aligns beautifully with the philosophy and physicality of whirling dance, making this partnership with Vanne Tanssi a perfect fit.

Photo: Ahti Kannisto

The workshop will introduce circus artists and hoop dancers to whirling as a powerful tool for enhancing balance, rhythm, and flow in their performances, while also offering the spiritual and meditative aspects of this ancient practice. By integrating whirling into these rotating art forms, we aim to create a space for artistic and personal growth, while deepening the connection between movement and mindfulness.

This first collaboration between Whirling Arts and Vanne Tanssi is a significant milestone for our association, as it opens new pathways for interdisciplinary exchange and innovation. We are eager to see how this partnership evolves and how whirling can inspire and enrich the creative practices of circus and hoop artists.

Workshop Details:
📅 Date: April 5th, 2025
🕚 Time: 11:00 – 13:00
📍 Location: Lauttasaari

Price : 35 Euro, Only 4 spots available still for this workshop. To sign up : vannetanssihydistys@gmail.com.

Stay tuned for more updates, and we look forward to seeing this collaboration come to life!

AUTUMN WEEKLY WHIRLING DANCE COURSE

Photo: Auvo Takkinen

The Autumn weekly whirling dance sessions, which began on September 10, 2024, with an open trial session, are coming to a close on December 3, 2024. This mystical and magical journey has spanned nearly three months, and now, as we approach the end, it is a moment to reflect on the unique experience these sessions have offered.

Each gathering over the past weeks was distinct, with every group bringing its own energy to the practice. Some participants joined us for multiple sessions, showing steady commitment, while others attended just one or two. Regardless of frequency, all participants contributed to the rich and varied atmosphere of the sessions. The presence of children, participating alongside their parents, added a special dynamic, infusing the sessions with a joyful and playful energy.

Observing the participants’ progress throughout this period has been a rewarding experience, offering insights into the deeper impact of regular whirling dance practice. For many, it became an opportunity for growth, both physically and spiritually, as they immersed themselves in the practice.

We are deeply grateful to the Oskar Oflunds Foundation for their generous financial support, which made these sessions possible. Their contribution allowed us to offer this enriching experience to a broad and diverse group, creating a memorable and transformative journey for all involved.

As we approach the final session, we carry forward the lasting effects of this shared experience, looking ahead to future opportunities to continue this magical practice.

DANCE OF THE INNER STORM

Whirling Arts Ry is preparing for a group whirling dance performance on 27th of April 2024 in Jyväskylä as part of Lauantai Set event organized by Keskellä-kollektiivi ( keskella.fi ).

This is the first ever group whirling dance performance that is going on stage in whole Finland.

The performance is called Dance of the inner storm ; which is not just a spectacle, but an exploration of the complex layers that make us human. The show delves into the realms of vulnerability, resilience and the power of self-discovery. The inner storm unleashed on the dance floor transforms into a liberation that invites the audience to reflect on their own inner storms and find support in the beauty of approaching the true self.

The performance is guided and choreographed by Safa Solati.

Our rehearal is set to be on March 23rd, at 14:00- 17:00 at Joogashala Kunvalo, Keskustie 21, jyväskylä. The participation is free and open to everyone and interested ones can simply show up to the practice session and see if they see themselves as part of the act.

It is not obligatory to have previous experience in whirling, but surely it is an advantage if the participants have been part of previous whirling dance workshops to know the basics.

The performance is is on a voluntary basis to raise awareness about our newly established association and its future projects and activities.

Whirling Arts Ry will consider to compensate the participants who eventually will be part of the performance for their travel and other relevant costs.

Warmly welcome! <3

Dance of the inner storm, 23.03.2024, photos: Jani Salonen

Watch the performance on Youtube : https://youtu.be/pLY2sLa8Nzs