W
anhat is a traditional dance
the other dancers from our school. We got to dine,
ceremony for the upcoming
go through the performance and laugh at our
seniors of the school. We
mistakes together. Our school went to a restaurant
practice various dance styles, and learn different
called Töölönranta, which was booked just for us. In
choreographies.The different dances are joined
my opinion the food was absolutely delicious, and
together to create a show, which we present at the
was worth the cost. We also got the opportunity to
end of the course. In addition to the several
attend one of the official after parties that were
traditional dances, the students also choreograph
organized for wanhat dancers from different high
their own dance that finishes the performance.
schools. The party was fun but in my opinion did not top the actual dance. People tend to worry too
Wanhat is something you shouldn’t stress about too
much about what to wear to the after party but
much. A little nervousness is good, but it shouldn’t go
word of advice: you shouldn’t. The place is dark and
beyond that, or you might forget to enjoy the event.
crowded, and by next morning no one will
During the first performance, dedicated to family
remember what you wore anyways.
and friends, I found myself stressing too much, and forgot to enjoy the first half of the show. After the
In my opinion the event was definitely worth the
halftime break, I got more relaxed and realized there
time. Even though a 75 minute dance practice at
was no need, and more importantly no time to be
14:45-16 on a Monday afternoon was not exactly
nervous if I wanted to get the most out of the
ideal, I feel like Wanhat is going to be something I’ll
experience. The performance on Friday morning was
always remember and look back to with a smile.
a lot more casual and I felt like the atmosphere was more fun rather than official. Everyone seemed happier and more confident in their dance. In addition to the actual performance, we were able to attend a fancy dinner; “Wanhojen illallinen”, with
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