Dance health
We want to bring communities closer to our artform by sharing all that we do and all that we learn.
Our aim is to enrich lives and contribute to wellness across society. We will research, develop, partner with collaborators to deliver initiatives that positively impact all dimensions of wellbeing; social, cultural, emotional, physical, environmental and intellectual.
The foundation of Queensland Ballet's Dance Health initiatives is to partner with other organisations to investigate the varied benefits of dance and movement in the lives of many different people. We want to create a narrative where dance is not only for fit young people who have experience in dance, and to make dance more accessible for more people and communities.
We take part in research programs to understand how dance affects health and wellbeing for young and old people, develop partnerships in regional communities to allow for opportunities there that may not have been previously available, supply unique training opportunities for health professionals, and look for ways to make dance more accessible within our own studios and theatres.
#In 2021
We delivered our first Relaxed Performance for The Nutcracker.
Relaxed Performances are an adapted theatre environment to enable people and families living with sensory needs to comfortably attend the theatre.
We developed a new financial model including partnerships with 17 host local councils, to ensure a long and sustainable regional program - including performances and workshops.
In partnership with Regis Aged Care, we delivered a 10-week Seated Ballet class program for their residents at the Ferny Grove facility. The results included progression of their ability, memory and mobility.
We delivered a 10-week Ballet for Brain Injury (BFBI) pilot program in partnership with Hopkins Centre, Griffith University, Citrine Sun Entertainment and health
practitioners.
#Our programs
Dance for Parkinson's
In 2013, Queensland Ballet launched a pilot program offering specialised dance classes to people with Parkinson's Disease, based on the internationally recognised Dance for PD® program.
Limitless Leaps
In partnership with AllPlay Dance, Deakin University Child Study Centre and Churchill State School, Queensland Ballet delivered a unique in-school 10-week dance program. Designed to partner children of all ability levels and engage them in movement.
Mind, Body, Ballet
Queensland Ballet's landmark health and wellbeing event for young dancers, parents, studio teachers and seniors. Focusing on holistic health and setting up good habits that can be carried throughout life.
Research reports
An inclusive school-based dance program for students of all abilities. Developed by AllPlay Dance, Deakin University Child Study Centre - July 2020
Enabled through the John Villier's Trust, in 2019 Queensland Ballet delivered a pilot Regional Teacher Training program for its early years dance program; QB Petit Pointers.
In 2018, Queensland Ballet partnered with Lady Gowrie Caboolture East Community Kindergarten and Queensland University of Technology to deliver the Kindy Moves program, supported by Arts Queensland’s Artists in Residence program.
In 2017, Queensland Ballet undertook research on the health and wellbeing benefits of ballet for mature adults.
In 2013, Queensland Ballet launched a pilot program offering specialised dance classes to people with Parkinson's Disease, based on the internationally recognised Dance for PD® program.
In 2021 Queensland Ballet delivered the Ballet for Brain Injury pilot program – a tailored dance program for people living with a brain injury delivered in partnership with Hopkins Centre, Griffith University, Queensland Conservatorium Research Centre and Citrine Sun Entertainment.
This report provides evaluation feedback from participants and facilitators, and makes recommendations for future iterations of the program and further research.
#Discover more
Regional programs
Each year Queensland Ballet delivers a program of community workshops and ballet performances to regional Queensland - engaging more people in dance.
Dance classes
We make dance accessible to all ages and ability levels with our weekly program of dance, pilates, and movement classes in Brisbane.
Workshops
View our schedule of up-coming workshops and dance events - everyone is welcome to participate.
