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

"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...

"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...

"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: 0...

"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 epi...

"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 importa...

"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...

"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 naviga...

"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 indivi...

"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...

"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 he...

"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 di...

"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 inspiri...

"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 c...

"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 necessaril...

"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...