By exploring dance practice in its broadest sense, we examine not only the disciplines of physiology, biomechanics and psychology but also the role of somatic practices and embodied and perceptual processes as alternative, relevant ways of knowing, learning and creating dance. This can necessitate a range of methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches.
Trinity Laban, Coventry University and Plymouth University were awarded almost £250,000 from the Leverhulme Trust to conduct a three year (2014-17), in-depth analysis of the mental imagery used by performers to push the boundaries of contemporary dance.
The aim of this project was to examine what enables dancers to more effectively use mental imagery to generate novel movement material. It also examined how such mental techniques and methods can be taught most effectively, with a view to developing enhanced training programmes for aspiring dancers. The project was a collaboration between Trinity Laban, Coventry University and Plymouth University. More information and resources from this project can be found on the Plymouth University blog.
Wayne McGregor is Professor of Choreography at Trinity Laban. In addition to the screening and profiling work we have offered to Studio Wayne McGregor dancers, our research into creativity has drawn from McGregor’s Choreographic Thinking Tools, Mind and Movement. We have collaborated with the cognitive scientists and psychologists who have observed and documented McGregor’s creative processes to further extend and enhance our understanding of the science behind creativity and dance making.
Musicians Health and Training Research
Trinity Laban is committed to the development of music performance science research. We have led funded projects into musician injury prevention and performance enhancement, undertaken studies into the physiological demands of Musical Theatre and was one of the 3 UK conservatoires to collaborate on a large-scale 4 year project into musicians’ health and wellbeing.
Trinity Laban Dance Science has undertaken extensive research into dancers in training. We have conducted national research into talent development and identification, developed a comprehensive screening and profiling programme for dancers and created the first dance specific tests of dancer fitness.
As a physical activity and a creative art form, dance can make a vital contribution to the healthy-living agenda. It has the capacity to provide an active, non-competitive form of exercise that can positively affect physical health and psychological wellbeing across different populations in the community.
Our current students are undertaking exciting projects within the field of Dance Science. For more information and how to apply to participate, follow the link below:
Trinity Laban Dance Science are currently undertaking a range of research and knowledge engagement activity in the area of dance and performance science. For information on current projects including related outputs and resources and how to take part, follow the link below:
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