Stoa

Welcome to Stoa!

Cultural Centre Stoa is a vibrant meeting place for art, creativity, and lifelong learning. Here you can immerse yourself in dance, circus, and a rich variety of cultural experiences. Let yourself be surprised by inspiring events and thought-pro - voking gallery exhibitions. Explore the library, join courses at the adult education centre or visit the youth activity centre Kipinä to relax, learn and discover something new. And while you’re here, don’t miss the delicious treats and lunches served at Stoa’s cosy café.

Stoa is a lively and varied culture centre for East Helsinki situated by the metro station in Itäkeskus, next door to the Itis Shopping Centre. The high quality events at Stoa attract visitors of all ages from all over Helsinki. Stoa's programme includes Finnish and international contemporary dance and circus, theatre, music, children’s performances and exhibitions. Stoa’s auditorium is one of the best venues for contemporary dance in Helsinki.

City of Helsinki is responsible for events at Stoa.

Organisations

In addition to the Helsinki City Cultural Office, Stoa houses the following organisations:

History

Stoa opened in 1984 under the name Itäkeskus Multifunction House. The name was changed in 1993 to Stoa the Cultural Centre of Eastern Helsinki. Stoa is the oldest of Helsinki’s local cultural centres.

The design of the building is based on the winning proposal of Björn Krogius and Veli-Pekka Tuominen, which won the design competition in 1977. A competition was also held in 1981 for the sculptures in front of the building. The blue Stoa sculpture by Hannu Sirén won first prize. Construction of the building began in 1983, and it was completed in November 1984.

Stoa’s Directors:
Irmeli Niemi 1984-1990
Katariina Metsälampi 1990-1991
Johanna Lindstedt 1991-1997
Paula Lehto 1997-2007
Paiju Tyrväinen 2007-2010
Tuula Yrjö-Koskinen 2011-2013
Riitta Aarniokoski 2014-2017
Ulla Laurio 2017-2018
Ulla Katriina Bergström 2018-2022
Antti Sarpo 2023-