What behaviors and attitudes ensure freelance dancers' career longevity? Does compassion help?

Rachel
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This podcast is part of my MA Research Project at the University of Salford's Professional Practice and Performance Course. Freelance dancers face unique challenges due to unstable work conditions and lack of support. This study identifies behaviours and mindsets promoting long careers, focusing on injury prevention, stress management, emotional regulation, and professional development. The goal is to offer recommendations and resources to help dancers extend their careers and improve their quality of life, filling a gap in existing research.

  1. Episode 13. Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus' Journey in the Performing Arts

    07/26/2024

    Episode 13. Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus' Journey in the Performing Arts

    "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. 00:00 - Introduction 00:02 - Tali's start in dance and early influences 02:13 - Auditioning for 'Into the Hoods' and the shift to a full-time dance career 04:05 - Working with top artists and transition to teaching 05:03 - Development of 'Identity Ideas Industry' 07:05 - Balancing passion and career 10:41 - The impact of social media on dance careers 15:21 - Financial realities of commercial dance vs. teaching 22:39 - Well-being practices and the importance of support systems 36:30 - Balancing multiple roles in the dance industry 42:48 - Conclusion and reflections on personal growth and career paths 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: Website Instagram

    44 min

  2. 07/24/2024

    Episode 15. Harnessing Compassion for Career Sustainability

    "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 Balanced Minds. (n.d.). Three system model. Balanced Minds. Retrieved July 24, 2024, from https://balancedminds.com/three-system-model/ Gilbert, P. (2010). The compassionate mind: A new approach to life's challenges. London: Constable.

    18 min
  3. Episode 14. Community, Careers, and Creativity with Karen Wood

    07/24/2024

    Episode 14. Community, Careers, and Creativity with Karen Wood

    "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: 00:32 - Karen’s background in dance and academia 01:31 - Access to dance and motivations for research 02:01 - Policy engagement and social change research 03:23 - Formation of the Manchester Dance Consortium 05:09 - Integration of research and practical application in dance 06:02 - The impact of artist-led networks on professional development 09:17 - Challenges of freelancing and union roles 13:31 - Financial instability and support systems for freelancers 21:10 - The role of creative identities and artist-led initiatives 27:16 - Essential skills for freelancers and leaders in the dance sector 34:11 - Policy implications and future directions in dance freelancing 41:50 - The potential of artist-led networks in shaping the dance industry 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/

    50 min

  4. 07/14/2024

    Episode 12. Self-Compassion in Performance-Oriented Environments with Courtney Walton

    "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. Timestamps: 00:02 – Introduction to Courtney Walton and her background 00:32 – Courtney’s work in elite sports and performing arts 01:28 – Experience at a dance school and its impact on her research 02:22 – Discussion on self-compassion in performers 03:16 – Defining a compassionate approach 05:12 – How understanding the brain helps in managing distress 06:38 – Compassion-focused therapy in practice 08:06 – The role of self-compassion in handling criticism and comparison 10:24 – Addressing resistance to self-compassion 11:20 – Misconceptions about self-compassion 14:17 – The analogy of compassionate vs. critical teaching 17:22 – Developing self-compassion as a skill 20:02 – Practical exercises for nurturing self-compassion 23:44 – The impact of compassionate meditations on performers 27:11 – The role of compassion in combating perfectionism 32:48 – Community support and self-compassion for freelancers 38:08 – Future research directions in compassion and performance Check Courtney's website here

    42 min

  5. 07/14/2024

    Episode 11. Embracing Creativity and Leadership with Dannielle ‘Rhimes’ Lecointe

    "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. Timestamps: 00:02 - Introduction and Danielle's background 01:28 - Transition from performer to leadership roles 03:19 - The importance of leadership in Danielle's journey 05:16 - Milestones and recognizing leadership qualities 09:28 - Dealing with creative fatigue and finding rest 13:33 - The importance of unique rest methods for creatives 17:54 - Prioritizing and grounding oneself amidst various projects 19:22 - Support systems for freelancers and the importance of mentorship 25:06 - Danielle's transition into coaching and mentorship 32:44 - Key factors for career longevity and reinvention 36:39 - Understanding identity outside of creative work Dannielle's creative account Dannielle's Biz account

    39 min

  6. 07/14/2024

    Episode 10. Finding Joy and Authenticity in Dance: A Conversation with Hannah Miles

    "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. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction and welcome 00:29 – Hannah’s role in the dance sector 02:23 – Finding a sense of self in dance 03:21 – The impact of saying yes to everything 06:24 – Realizing how to be a creative 07:21 – Transitioning to the NHS 08:50 – Balancing freelance work and NHS 11:08 – Financial stability and mental health 12:06 – The impact of an ankle injury 13:04 – The challenges of freelancing with an injury 17:15 – The importance of self-awareness 19:10 – The benefits of a new job 21:24 – Shifting approach to health and well-being 25:14 – Managing self-expectations 29:40 – The role of support and community 37:16 – Learning from tour life 41:06 – Accepting support from others 47:34 – Final reflections Resources: https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/ https://www.onedanceuk.org/ Hannah's Instagram

    49 min

  7. 07/14/2024

    Episode 9. From Dancer to Coach and Back Again: Nicole Kabera's Career Journey

    "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. 00:00 – Introduction and welcome 00:24 – Nicole’s early life and start in dance 01:22 – Journey to professional dance and joining Matthew Bourne's New Adventures 01:51 – Transition to coaching and personal training 02:50 – Working in a gym and learning from colleagues 03:44 – Founding The Performer Circle 04:44 – Balancing coaching with performing 05:40 – Importance of fitness in dance 06:38 – Identity and fulfillment in dance 08:33 – Challenges and mental health 10:23 – Overcoming depression and personal growth 12:12 – Defining milestones and career decisions 14:35 – Shift in mindset and career breakthrough 16:26 – Finding joy and balance in a demanding career 18:18 – Non-negotiables for well-being 20:37 – Coaching techniques and common challenges 24:18 – Vision and goal setting for dancers 27:13 – Managing multiple roles and priorities 30:17 – Accepting imperfections and prioritizing effectively 34:57 – Key factors contributing to a successful and fulfilling career 37:48 – Final thoughts and message for listeners Nicole's instagram

    40 min

  8. 07/14/2024

    Episode 7. Your Creative Freelance Voice with Vasilliki Papapostolou

    "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. Vasilliki's Instagram

    58 min
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About

This podcast is part of my MA Research Project at the University of Salford's Professional Practice and Performance Course. Freelance dancers face unique challenges due to unstable work conditions and lack of support. This study identifies behaviours and mindsets promoting long careers, focusing on injury prevention, stress management, emotional regulation, and professional development. The goal is to offer recommendations and resources to help dancers extend their careers and improve their quality of life, filling a gap in existing research.

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