Dance and Mime Theatre

Auraco was founded in 2006 and is run by non-profit association Kuukulkurit ry. The touring company is based in Helsinki, Finland. Since 2010 Auraco is one of the most internationally touring Finnish dance companies, with 26 countries so far in Europe and Asia.

Auraco’s performances trust the performers’ presence and the vulnerability of the movement itself. With minimalistic or no décor, the performers fill the empty stage, creating a responsive atmosphere. The relationship with the audience is open and sensitive. The performances break boundaries between the performers and the audience. Audience development is a key element of Auraco’s work.

Auraco is or has been a partner in several European Union co-funded projects: Small Size, Performing Arts for Early Years 2014–2018, Growing Up in Europe 2014–2016 and Parenthood, Education, Culture, Art 2010–2012. In the Small Size, big citizens project in 2010–2014 Auraco was a local co-partner.

Auraco has a wide range of educational programme and collaborates, for instance with City Contemporary Dance Company (HK), Guangdong Dance Festival (CHN), Step Out (Macau), SIDance Festival (KOR), Helsinki City Culture Office (FI), Espoo City Culture Office (FI), and with several kindergartens and schools both in Finland and abroad. Auraco’s artists have had residencies in France, Spain and Hong Kong.

Auraco is supported by Arts Promotion Centre Finland, Finnish Ministry of Culture and Education, European Union Commission, City of Helsinki and private foundations. Auraco is a member of the following communities: Assitej Finland, Dance House Helsinki Association, Theatre Centre, Free Dance Groups, Small Size Network and Undercreative Network.

• Päivi Aura, artistic director, choreographer, director, dancer
• Kati Lehtola, artistic director, dance and mime artist
• Keanne van de Kreeke, scenographer, props manifacturer