The network of theatres is extensive and stems from the days of amateur activities. There are nearly 60 theatres with permanent staff which are entitled to statutory state aid. In addition, there are some theatrical groups. Statutory state aid covers ca. The share paid by the government and local authorities is larger in the case of smaller theatres and theatrical groups.
Theatrical groups operating on a freelance basis receive discretionary state aid.
The theatre workers' unions are strong. The Theatre Information Centre compiles theatre statistics and maintains international contacts. Dance was long eclipsed by theatre and music in Finland, but is now increasingly popular. The National Ballet and the Helsinki City Theatre employ dancers on a permanent basis. Under the Theatre Act, nine dance theatres receive about half of their funding in the form of statutory state aid.