Learning a language involves not only understanding its grammar and vocabulary but also diving into its cultural aspects. One such vibrant area is the world of dance and performance, which comes with its own set of terms. Here’s a look into some Finnish vocabulary related to dance and performance, along with their definitions and examples of how to use them.

Tanssi
The word tanssi means “dance” in Finnish and can refer to any style or form of dancing.
Hän rakastaa tanssin opiskelua.

Esiintyminen
Esiintyminen means “performance” and is used to describe the act of performing in front of an audience, whether it’s dance, theatre, or music.
Olen jännittynyt huomisesta esiintymisestä.

Koreografia
Koreografia is “choreography” in Finnish, referring to the planned movement and sequences in a dance.
Tämä koreografia on todella monimutkainen.

Balettitanssija
A balettitanssija is a “ballet dancer.” This term is specific to dancers who perform in the classical dance form known as ballet.
Hän unelmoi tulla ammattimaiseksi balettitanssijaksi.

Näytelmä
Näytelmä translates to “play” or “drama” and is used to refer to theatrical stage performances.
He näkivät Shakespearen näytelmän eilen illalla.

Rooli
The term rooli means “role” and is used to describe the character that an actor or a performer portrays in a performance.
Hän sai pääroolin koulunsa musikaalissa.

Lavastus
Lavastus is the Finnish term for “scenography,” referring to the design and decoration of the stage for a performance.
Lavastus oli niin yksityiskohtainen, että se vei katsojan toiseen maailmaan.

Harjoitukset
The word harjoitukset means “rehearsals” and is used when performers practice for an upcoming show or performance.
Näyttelijöillä on harjoitukset joka päivä ennen ensi-iltaa.

Ensi-ilta
Ensi-ilta refers to “premiere” or “opening night,” the first public performance of a play, dance, or film.
Ensi-ilta oli myyty loppuun kuukausia sitten.

Valaistus
Valaistus in the context of performance refers to “lighting.” It’s an integral part of creating the atmosphere on stage.
Valaistuksen ansiosta tanssijat näyttivät siltä kuin he liikkuivat vedessä.

Puku
The word puku means “costume” and is used to describe the attire performers wear during a dance or stage performance.
Jokaisella tanssijalla oli värikäs puku esityksessä.

Lava
Lava simply means “stage” and is where performances take place.
Näytöksen lopussa kaikki tanssijat palasivat lavalle kumartamaan.

Musiikki
Musiikki is “music,” an essential component of many dance and performance forms.
Kappaleen musiikki sai yleisön taputtamaan tahtia.

Incorporating these Finnish words into your language repertoire will not only boost your vocabulary but also enrich your appreciation for the performing arts within Finnish culture. Whether you’re attending a tanssi performance, participating in harjoitukset, or simply discussing the nuances of a näytelmä, these terms will certainly come in handy. Keep practicing, and you’ll be discussing dance and performance like a native Finn in no time!