Theater courses and improvisation courses – Helsinki
Physical theatre
In the course you will explore the expressive possibilities of the body and explore using the body as a tool based on the pedagogy developed by Jacques Lecoq. You will try different mask working techniques and get to know the neutral and larval mask.
» Sign up for physical theatre courses
Expression skills
In the expression and theatre courses you can try out different expression exercises or learn how to apply theatre tools to your own work. There is Theatre expression for thrill seekers, Story theatre and theatre expression also for working life. In the storytelling course, in addition to expression exercises, you will also learn about the storytelling formula and use it to create stories. The basic stand-up comedy course offers a comprehensive introduction to the secrets of the genre.
Sign up for expression courses
Improvisation courses
Improvisation courses allow you to express yourself and try out different improvisation exercises. Improvisation is a fun way to develop expression, creativity, and performance and interaction skills for everyday and work needs as well as for your own pleasure. The skills learned through improvisation are useful in many areas of life. The school offers several different improvisation courses from the elementary level, as well as, for example, Creative Presence in Improvisation, Long Improvisation and an improvisation course for adults and children. Improvisation courses are also available in English.
» Sign up for improvisation courses
Clownery
Clowning has its roots in the culture of many indigenous peoples and the jesters who performed there. Today, clowning is most strongly influenced by the Italian theatrical style. commedia dell'arte, which was a farcical and improvisational theatre style. The institute's two weekend clowning courses at different levels introduce you to the world of the genre through games and plays, not forgetting the world's smallest mask, the clown's red nose.
Puppet show
The institute's courses introduce the basics of puppet handling, or puppetry. Through various exercises focusing on the puppet's movement, breathing and gaze, we explore how to create the illusion of the puppet's life. We practice paying attention to the movement suggestions that arise from the puppet itself and utilizing them in building a role character. The courses also pay attention to the ergonomic movement of the puppet.
» Sign up for puppetry courses
Acting courses
The courses introduce you to different aspects of acting, such as emotional, speech and physical expression, and help you to detach your expression and deepen your presence. There are various acting courses available from the beginner level. In addition, there are private lessons available, where you can develop your performance skills comprehensively or focus on a specific area of performance according to your needs. Personal coaching is especially useful when preparing for upcoming performance situations. Acting courses are also available in English.
Stand-up
The basic stand-up comedy course offers a comprehensive introduction to the secrets of stand-up comedy; from ideating and writing stories to performing skills and creating a finished show.
» Sign up for Stand-up courses
Subscription courses
Does your company need to organize a program for a quiet/busy day or other recreational days or kick-off events? We organize various activities and workshops to help create a sense of community and relaxation.
Subscription courses can also be a fun addition to birthday parties, bachelor parties, or various evenings with friends.

“I am really happy that I continued on to the second course, which once again exceeded my expectations. I got a lot of new, useful ideas here for developing interaction in everyday life – or perhaps, delightfully, in everyday life and working life.”
Student
theater and improvisation

It's easy for us to come
College facilities Located with good transport connections, the courses are easy to get to. The courses are held at the university building on Runeberginkatu or in the center of Helsinki on Annankatu.
About study advice You will receive help with course selection and study-related questions. Feel free to contact us and together we will find the right course for you!
Course info
The lesson length is 45 minutes.
The language of instruction for the courses is usually Finnish. In many courses, teachers can also teach in English or another language. You can ask the student guidance office what language will be used in the course.
Remember to take care of your own insurance coverage, as the college does not take out insurance for students.
Distance teaching
Some of the teaching at Helsinki Adult Education Centre is organised via distance learning, for example using Zoom. Distance learning applications are easy to use and you can join the class from home. The link you receive will automatically direct you to the distance learning class.
Is there anything left to ponder?
Student Counseling always offers you help in finding the right level and course, for example if you have time from a previous course or if you want to learn a completely new sport.
Study advice