"I think there's a level of acceptance that needs to come with being where you are because of what you're doing and not thinking that you're doing all you can and the world just hasn't rewarded you for your efforts yet."
Tali, explores her multifaceted career from commercial dance to choreography and beyond. Tali shares her journey through the dance scene, her transitions between different styles and companies, and how she manages her identity within the ever-evolving dance industry.
Tali is a renowned figure in the dance community known for her dynamic approach to hip hop theatre and commercial dance. With a career spanning over two decades, she has performed with notable artists like Pink, Rihanna, and Kylie, and has significantly contributed to dance education and choreography.
Contact Tali here:
"Compassion is what sets this whole thing apart."
In this episode, Rachel delves into the intricacies of Paul Gilbert’s model of compassion and its application to freelancers, particularly freelance dancers. Rachel, a student at the University of Salford, explores the psychological and physiological impacts of compassion, discussing how it can foster career longevity and well-being among freelance dancers.
Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to compassion and its importance 05:00 - Understanding the brain and social mentalities 12:30 - The threat system and its effects on freelancers 20:45 - The role of society in shaping our responses 25:00 - The soothe system and the power of self-compassion 35:00 - Implications for freelance dance artists 45:00 - The physiological impact of compassion 55:00 - Conclusion and preview of next episodes
"Artist-led networks put the artist in charge, creating their own opportunities."
In this episode, we delve deep with Karen Wood, a seasoned dancer and researcher, into the intricacies of the dance community and freelance careers. Karen discusses her journey through dance, the significance of artist-led networks, and the challenges and opportunities within the dance sector.
Timestamps:
Guest Information:
Karen Wood - Dancer, Researcher, and Advocate for the dance community. Karen has extensive experience in both performing and academic aspects of dance, focusing on policy engagement and community-led initiatives.
Resources
https://www.mcrdansortium.com/
https://birminghamdancenetwork.co.uk/
https://freelancedance.uk/about/
"The compassionate approach isn't to say, 'This is too hard, let's just avoid it.' It's to turn towards that difficulty and find a way through."
"Taking a more compassionate approach is really helpful for managing some of the distress that will come up somewhat inevitably through some of those things that people like freelance dancers will face."
In this episode, Courtney Walton, a researcher and psychologist, discusses the importance of self-compassion in performance-oriented environments such as elite sports and performing arts. He explains how self-compassion can help performers manage distress, overcome perfectionism, and foster a supportive community. Courtney also shares practical strategies for developing self-compassion and highlights the need for compassionate approaches within training environments.
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"Learning to grieve a project is essential for creative rest."
"Your gift will make room for you."
In this episode, we chat with Dannielle Rhimes LeCointe, a prominent figure in the hip-hop theater and creative arts scene. In this episode, Dannielle discusses her transition from a performer in hip-hop theatre to a leadership role in the creative arts. She emphasises the importance of recognising and leveraging one’s strengths, dealing with creative fatigue through unique rest methods, and seeking support and mentorship. Dannielle also shares her journey into coaching, highlighting the value of reinvention and self-awareness for long-term career success.
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"Creating a portfolio career that I'm proud of rather than one that just impresses others."
"The pressure to perform was so high"
In this episode, we speak with Hannah Miles, a dancer who has shifted her focus from technical perfection to finding joy and authenticity in her work. Hannah shares her journey in the dance sector, her experiences with freelancing, the importance of community, and her recent transition to working in the NHS while continuing her passion for dance. This conversation is filled with insights on maintaining a sense of self and well-being in the demanding world of dance.
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Resources:
"If you don't allow yourself to name what you want, it's very unlikely that it's gonna happen."
In this episode, we chat with Nicole, a principal dancer with Matthew Bourne's New Adventures and founder of The Performer Circle. Nicole shares her inspiring journey from starting ballet at four to becoming a professional dancer, and how a passion for fitness helped her navigate personal challenges and transitions in her career. We dive into her experiences with coaching, the importance of mental well-being, and how she maintains balance in her multifaceted life.
"I think everybody needs to see themselves as equally capable of creating something good, as all the other names out there."
"In the hip hop community, the most important thing is how individual you are and how you develop your own voice."
In this episode, Vasilliki discusses her journey from hip hop and ballroom Latin to contemporary dance, emphasizing the importance of individuality and personal movement language. She reflects on the influence of the hip hop community, the challenges of freelancing, and the role of journaling and counseling in her artistic development. Through her unique path, Vasilliki inspires listeners to embrace their strengths and develop their own artistic voice.
"Freelancers with an understanding of compassion report improvements such as reconnecting with their creative selves and finding stability and fulfillment in diverse activities."
In this episode of the Mid-Project Ideas Podcast, Rachel, an MA Dance Performance and Professional Practices student at the University of Salford, delves into the complex world of freelance dance. Exploring the challenges freelance dancers face, Rachel examines how compassion and adaptive behaviors can contribute to career longevity. The episode features insights from coaches, researchers, and dancers, shedding light on the realities of freelancing, perfectionism, and self-identity within the dance industry.
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Resources & Links:
Reference List:
Aujla, I. J., & Farrer, R. (2015). The role of psychological factors in the career of the independent dancer. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 1688. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01688
Aujla, I. J., Farrer, R., Jenkins, L., King, N., & Win, S. (2021). The role and impact of freelancers in the UK dance sector. Medical Problems of Performing Artists, 36(4), 233-237. https://doi.org/10.21091/mppa.2021.4030
Bennett, D. (2019). Careers in Dance: Beyond Performance to the Real World of Work. Routledge.
Gilbert, P. (2014). The Compassionate Mind. New Harbinger Publications.
Hill, A. P., Mallinson-Howard, S. H., Madigan, D. J., & Jowett, G. E. (2016). Perfectionism in sport, dance, and exercise: An extended review and reanalysis. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 27, 101-111. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2016.08.013
Mosewich, A. D., Crocker, P. R. E., Kowalski, K. C., & DeLongis, A. (2013). Applying self-compassion in sport: An intervention with women athletes. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 35(5), 514-524. https://doi.org/10.1123/jsep.35.5.514
Sommers-Spijkerman, M., Trompetter, H. R., Schreurs, K. M. G., & Bohlmeijer, E. T. (2017). Compassionate attributes and skills: An exploration in the context of enhancing well-being. Mindfulness, 8, 344-353. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-016-0602-6
Stigler, B. (2018). Lose Yourself to Dance. Dance Research, 36(2), 203-220.
Walton, C. C., Osborne, M. S., Gilbert, P., & Kirby, J. N. (2022). Nurturing self-compassionate performers. Psychology of Music, 50(5), 743-760. https://doi.org/10.1177/0305735619868287
Wood, K. (2017). UK dance graduates and preparation for freelance working: The contribution of artist-led collectives and dance agencies to the dance ecology. Research in Dance Education, 18(3), 282-297. https://doi.org/10.1080/14647893.2017.1362431
Wood, K. (2017). Freelance dance artists’ working ecology. Dance Research, 35(2), 135-150. https://doi.org/10.3366/drs.2017.0196
"It's always been about solving the problem and thinking, 'How can I resolve this?' rather than getting bogged down by it."
"Being a good person and having good communication skills can make or break your career."
In this episode, Faye Stoeser shares her experiences navigating the freelance dance industry, highlighting her journey through various dance styles and her transition into choreography. She discusses the importance of versatility, maintaining physical and mental well-being, and the value of community and relationships. Faye offers practical advice for sustaining a freelance dance career and handling the inevitable challenges and rejections with resilience and a positive mindset.
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Resources
"Dance was my way of expressing myself and feeling safe."
"I value my wellbeing and inner peace more than pursuing a dream that may never come to fruition."
"The dance industry needs more genuine mentorship and community."
Christina Demetriou, a dancer with a rich multicultural background, shares her journey from South Africa to Cyprus and eventually to London. She discusses the challenges of navigating the freelance dance industry, the impact of social media on her career, and the importance of self-awareness and personal wellbeing. Christina emphasises the need for genuine mentorship and community support within the dance world to help dancers thrive amidst financial and competitive barriers.
Resources & Links:
"Self-care isn’t just face masks and hot baths; it’s about removing stresses that aren’t helping you."
"Understanding your values is crucial for maintaining well-being and performance."
In this episode, we have the pleasure of talking with Manisha, a trainee sport and exercise psychologist pursuing her professional doctorate at John Moores University. Manisha shares her inspiring journey into the field of sport psychology, the unique challenges faced by dancers and athletes, and the importance of mental health and well-being in performance. We delve into her work with dancers, the impact of COVID-19 on recent graduates, and her ongoing research and projects.
Resources & Links:
"Befriending rejection and closing the gap between setbacks and getting back on track is crucial."
"Meditation and energy therapy help me let go of fears and focus on what I truly desire."
"Balance depends on what's important to you in that moment and how you manage your time."
In this episode, Rachel interviews Frankie, a dancer, Pilates instructor, and mindset coach. They discuss Frankie's journey from a career-halting injury to becoming a multifaceted professional, the importance of mindset, and the role of energy therapy in overcoming fears. Frankie also shares insights on balancing a freelance dance career with personal well-being and the significance of community support.
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"If I'm only focused on dance, then if my career isn't going the way I want it to go, then I feel like a failure as a person. Whereas if I have taken the time to create relationships and nurture the relationships that I want, or I've taken the time to develop hobbies and communities outside of dance, then even if my career isn't going according to plan...I don't necessarily feel like a failure as a human being."
In this episode, we dive into an insightful conversation with Crystal Nichols, a health and performance coach who specialises in helping performers thrive both on and off stage. Crystal shares her journey from being a professional dancer to becoming a coach, her experience with burnout, and how she helps performers build healthy, sustainable careers.
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"Thinking positively can improve your mood, which then encourages productive actions, creating a positive cycle."
"Our brains evolved to ensure our survival in a very different environment from the one we live in today."
Rachel, an MA Dance Performance and Professional Practices student at the University of Salford, defines key terms crucial to her research on career longevity among freelance dancers. She explains that behaviours are the specific actions and routines of dancers, while attitudes are their mental approaches. Rachel discusses the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) model and Paul Gilbert’s Three System Model to highlight the interconnectedness of thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. She explores wellbeing through Ryff's Model, the Six Dimensions of Wellness, and Engel's Biopsychosocial Model, emphasising physical, mental, emotional, social, environmental, and existential health. Career longevity is defined as sustaining a professional dance career over time, balancing wellbeing and adaptability. Rachel introduces her sub-question on whether compassion can facilitate adaptive behaviours and attitudes, setting the stage for future episodes.
Resources & Links:
CBT Model of Emotions
Three System Model by Paul Gilbert
Ryff's Model of Psychological Wellbeing
Precision Nutrition’s Deep Health Concept
References: