Dance & Disability: A research on inclusive dance education & training

This study is an outcome of the iDance educational project, co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union, which has been initiated by the Onassis Stegi (GR) and delivered in partnership with 3 more European institutions: the Holland Dance Festival (NL), the Skånes Dansteater (SE), and the Stopgap Dance Company (UK). The study examines and discusses inclusive dance as practiced principally in these four countries, outlining, and comparing core cultural and educational policies, aiming to map current conditions and to articulate possible future strategies. It starts first with the theoretical background that examines definitions, and challenges stereotypical notions of dance and disability, to continue with researching the cultural and educational conditions in each of the partnering countries, mapping and examining how iDance project contributes to the educational landscape, and it finishes with conclusions and a best practices guide that aims to indicate what is effective, and thus to contribute to the development of the field. Methodologically, the study uses bibliographical research, socio-historical approaches, and ethnography as valuable tools in attending and participating in relevant workshops and interviewing key-members of the programme.

The research was conducted by Mrs Betina Panagiotara, a dance researcher and journalist.

You can read the full research report here: http://www.idancenetwork.eu/activities/dance-disability/