Combining interviews, presentations, panel discussions, demonstration classes and a live performance, the conference brought together leading experts in dance, health, community arts and education to explore the ways in which dance can enhance lives.
"Harlequin Floors is delighted to be a part of such an important event," said Mark Rasmussen, group marketing manager for Harlequin Floors. "Our sponsorship of the conference is further evidence of our commitment to delivering the very highest standards of health and safety for the world's dance community."
Harlequin was present on all three days of the conference and delegates were able to collect literature and discuss their requirements or find out more about how dancing on the correct floor can make a difference to injury rates. Rasmussen took part in a panel discussion entitled Who Cares?: the health and wellbeing of professional dancers.
Conference highlights included an opportunity to hear Robert Cohan, founder director of The Place, reflect on his role as teacher and mentor to a generation of British contemporary dancers. The Academy's president, Darcey Bussell, was present on the opening day and Gillian Lynne, the internationally renowned choreographer and a vice-president of the RAD, gave the keynote address followed by a reception.
The conference offered a range of perspectives on dance as a means of enhancing lifelong wellbeing, including dance and longevity, dance in the community, dance and disability, dance and fitness and the benefits of dance to physical and emotional health.
(Jim Evans)
