Dancing with Parkinson's Disease and Multiple Sclerosis

As a Dance Artist and community practitioner, I see and feel the power of dance every day, yet I do understand that the idea of dance can be scary and even off putting to some. Having worked in the arts and cultural sector in Dorset for the last decade, I have specialised in dance for health since 2016 and I have consistently seen the mental, physical and social benefits for participants. A trio of Dorset and Hampshire based arts organisations champion this particular work, hosting specialist gentle dance and movement based classes for people living with Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis, facilitating welcoming environments that combine tailored movement, music and care. Dorchester Arts, Pavilion Dance South West and Forest Arts Centre manage classes in Dorchester and Sherborne, Bournemouth and New Milton respectively, providing scientifically researched and evidence based models of teaching that support people to live with their symptoms. It’s an absolute joy to co-lead many of the Dorset classes, which are fun, inclusive and challenging too. We welcome anyone who would like to give class a go.