Sam Vaherlehto

Sam Vaherlehto is a multi-award-winning dancer, choreographer, and educator whose career bridges classical ballet, contemporary dance, and street styles. He graduated from the Ballet School of the Finnish National Opera in 2007 and began his professional career with the Finnish National Ballet, performing a wide repertoire ranging from classical works to creations by leading contemporary choreographers including Ohad Naharin, William Forsythe, Johan Inger, Jorma Uotinen, and Christian Spuck. His versatility and stage presence were recognised early through numerous accolades, including three Finnish street dance championship titles, second place at the Nordic Ballet Contest, and winning Finland’s first season of So You Think You Can Dance in 2010.

Following his time with the National Ballet, Sam toured internationally with Susanna Leinonen Company before joining Phoenix Dance Theatre in Leeds, where he performed for five years and later took on the role of rehearsal director. He subsequently worked with SLATE Contemporary Dance Company in Shanghai as both dancer and rehearsal director, touring nationally and internationally.

After returning to the UK, Sam graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and became a trustee of The Work Room, gaining experience in artist development and arts governance. Now based in London, he focuses on teaching and mentoring, working regularly at institutions such as The Place, Performers College, and Laine Theatre Arts, and teaching company class for Company Wayne McGregor, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures. Most recently, he returned to the stage performing with Company Wayne McGregor and Royal Opera House.