Performance Science is a podcast exploring the science of performing and the role of performance in society. It encourages us to think differently about the ways in which performing is part of our lives.
In the first season, we look at the wellbeing of performing artists through conversations with performers and those working across the creative industries. Specifically, we consider how the recent disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic has shed a light on the broader challenges of being a performing artist and ask what the future holds for the creative workforce.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Performance Science is a podcast exploring the science of performing and the role of performance in society. It encourages us to think differently about the ways in which performing is part of our lives.
In the first season, we look at the wellbeing of performing artists through conversations with performers and those working across the creative industries. Specifically, we consider how the recent disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic has shed a light on the broader challenges of being a performing artist and ask what the future holds for the creative workforce.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this third episode, host Aaron Williamon, Head of the Centre for Performance Science, is joined by Charlotte Penton-Smith, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Musicians, and Lynda Rooke, President of Equity. They explore the financial instability faced by the creative workforce, the challenges of freelancing, and the impact these factors have on the health and wellbeing of artists. The conversation also looks at ways to protect performers and considers future research and support initiatives within the industry.
Research:
Shaughnessy, C., et al., (2022). The future of the cultural workforce: Perspectives from early career arts professionals on the challenges and future of the cultural industries in the context of COVID-19. Social Sciences and Humanities Open, 6(1), 1-12. DOI>>
Spiro, N., et al., (2024). The HEartS professional model: A conceptual model for arts professionals’ work and wellbeing. Social Sciences & Humanities Open. (In press). [LINK]
Credits:
Host: Aaron Williamon (Head of Centre for Performance Science)
Guests: Charlotte Penton-Smith (Royal Society of Musicians), Lynda Rooke (Equity)
Production support: Caitlin Shaughnessy, Frederick Lam, Michael Durrant (Centre for Performance Science), Nic Flatt (Fat Panda), Chris Garrington (Research Podcasts)
With thanks to the Arts and Humanities Research Council for their generous support.
Recorded September 2024 at the Royal College of Music, London.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.