Scottish Ballet is spearheading a groundbreaking Dance for Parkinson’s Scotland programme, delivered in partnership with Dance Base.
In Scotland, there are estimated to be 10,000 people who live with Parkinson’s, and this number is set to increase over the next 25 years. Dance can help people with Parkinson's physically, mentally and socially, aiding mobility and improving overall feelings of wellbeing.
Established in 2016, the Dance for Parkinson’s Scotland programme supports those with Parkinson’s to experience the benefits of dance and creativity -improving balance, spatial awareness, confidence and fluidity in movement. Every week, around 130 participants take part in sessions delivered by Scottish Ballet in Glasgow, Dance Base in Edinburgh and with our local hub partners: Aberdeen Performing Arts and City Moves, Beacon Arts Centre in Greenock, Centre Stage in Kilmarnock, Eden Court in Inverness, and Shaper Caper and The Space in Dundee.
Scottish Ballet and Dance Base are establishing new regional hubs in three locations this Autumn, bringing the total number to ten across Scotland. The new classes will be delivered in partnership with Eastgate Theatre and Arts Centre in Peebles, Horsecross Arts in Perth and Macrobert Arts Centre in Stirling.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The warm and informal Dance for Parkinson’s Scotland classes feature elements of ballet and contemporary dance with a focus on Scottish Ballet’s repertoire. Using the themes and movement from current productions, specially trained Scottish Ballet and Dance Base Dance Artists lead participants to develop movement skills with particular focus on fluidity of movement, balance, coordination, expression, posture and rhythm. The classes also include activities focused on problem solving, improvisation, vocal skills, and repetition from memory and multi-tasking, which are all key areas for people with Parkinson's. The classes feature live music accompaniment.
For more information on Dance for Parkinson’s Scotland, please contact dancehealth@scottishballet.co.uk.
SUPPORT US
If you would like more information about making a donation to Dance for Parkinson’s Scotland please contact Olivia Calder on 0141 331 6269 or olivia.calder@scottishballet.co.uk.