The Domestic Opera, founded by Aino Ackté and Edvard Fazer, made its debut on October 2, 1911. The Finnish National Opera was born. Explore the history of the Opera and Ballet.

Francisco Couto and Stefania Saglietti-Couto met at the Finnish National Opera Orchestra. This is their love story.

Life in the sewing studio is surprisingly fast and furious. We asked seamstress Outi Riikonen to explain what she does at the costume department of the Opera House.

Veikko Tyrväinen (16.5.1922–11.6.1986) was a soloist at the Finnish National Opera for over a quarter of a century, from 1946 to 1972. Tyrväinen would have celebrated his 100th birthday on 16 May, 2022.

Karita Mattila is one of today’s most radiant sopranos. Mattila was recently interviewed by reporter Raila Kinnunen.

What exactly does the work of a ballet pianist involve? Marja-Kaisa Mäkinen tells all about her varied and fast-paced role accompanying the dancers of the Finnish National Ballet.

In Finland, you have only one head coach at a time. Head Coach and Conductor Kurt Kopecky tells about his unique job at the Finnish National Opera and Ballet.

“I am responsible for anything to do with lights and special effects during a performance. That means every one of the more than 600 lights of the stage, as well as any video projections and smoke. I plan their implementation according to the lighting designer’s wishes and supervise their setup and programming for all rehearsals and performances.”

Read more about Maestro Patrick Fournillier, our principal guest conductor!