Back to Dance

In 2004/5 creative movement and dance facilitator, Libby Seward, piloted an action research project entitled Back to Dance in collaboration with the Department of Physiotherapy and the Backcare Clinic of Waterford Regional Hospital. This project set out to explore the relationship between Physiotherapy and creative movement/dance.

Libby facilitated a series of workshops for physiotherapists working within the hospital and the clients of the backcare clinic which enables people to manage their chronic backpain. By establishing a dialogue between creative movement and physiotherapy, Libby explored the potential of creative movement in engaging the client and embracing physicality as an expression of emotion and is something that can compliment and enhance existing healthcare practices.

Through this programme, she reflected on the challenges of integrating movement and dance into an acute healthcare setting.

Back to Dance was initiated and coordinated by the Waterford Healing Arts Trust and funded under the Arts Council's Artists in the Community Scheme.  An evaluation of the programme is available upon request.