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Description of initiative
A multi-stranded project responding to challenges and possibilities for artists in the medical setting, following the Covid 19 crisis. Building on over 17 years of experience, the organisation continues to research and develop innovative approaches to participatory, performance and digital dance practices in pediatric healthcare.
The current programme includes:
1. Regular one to one/small group somatic dance sessions for hospitalised Infants, Children and Young People (ICYP) on acute wards at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital (AHCH) including, neurology/cardiac/acute mental health.
2. The creation of 360° dance film for VR experience for children in hospital and researching innovative approaches to dance VR/AR for hospitalised/isolated children with Coventry University
4. Artist development opportunities-reflective practice for STDC artists & CPD training for dance and mental health-including children with eating disorders.
5. Artist development-apprenticeships and emerging artist/work based learning programme.
Themes: Culture and...
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Results, benefits, impact and lessons learnt
This is the latest phase in a 17 year award winning partnership which has engaged thousands of children, their families and hospital staff. Dance at Alder Hey is considered part of a multidisciplinary approach to care contributing to children's rehabilitation, recovery and wellbeing.
The organisation have explored participatory and performance practice on acute wards including neuro-rehabilitation, cardiac (pre and post surgery), renal dialysis, acute mental health and intensive care. The work adds understanding to questions concerning the life enhancing aspects of active and audience participation in dance, demonstrating that participating in and watching dance can support recovery and wellbeing, making a case for dance to be accessible to all in hospital and care. The work contributes knowledge on the benefits of somatic and improvised dance for participants, including having fun, creative self-expression, increased wellbeing and mobilisation and a reduction in pain.