Hanna-Kaija Takalo

Artistic Director & Choreographer

Hanna-Kaija Takalo is an Oulu-based choreographer, director, dance pedagogue, and the Artistic Director of Vera Audentia Dance Company. She holds a Bachelor of Culture and Arts (Dancer and Dance Teacher) alongside qualifications as an integrative short therapist, art therapy instructor, and sports coach. Her multidisciplinary background underpins a holistic, humanistic, and phenomenological approach to movement and artmaking.

Driven by a deep curiosity about humanity and northern movement expression, Hanna-Kaija creates distinct contemporary dance works centered on choreographic depth and emotional resonance. As the core creative behind Vera Audentia Dance Company, she oversees choreography, direction, artistic vision, and strategic development, while actively fostering dialogue between contemporary dance and new artistic collaborations.

Julie Marttila

Executive Director & Producer

Julie Marttila serves as the Executive Director of Vera Audentia Dance Company and strategic partner to Artistic Director Hanna-Kaija. She is a language, culture, communications and marketing professional holding a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree. Alongside her academic foundation, she has completed extended studies in music and is completing an extended curriculum in dance art in 2027.

With a lifelong background in ballet and various dance styles, Julie has further deepened her expertise in contemporary dance through the Graham for Europe intensive program in Paris. At Vera Audentia Dance Company, she manages operations, producer responsibilities, and international outreach, bringing Oulu-based dance artistry to national and international stages. She also actively participates in Vera Audentia Movement, fostering goal-oriented dance training and performance opportunities in the region.