Research suggests dance can improve cognitive performance and reaction times, making it a useful treatment for a number of conditions, including arthritis, dementia, depression and Parkinson’s Disease (PD).

In 2013, Queensland Ballet (QB) launched a pilot program offering specialised dance classes to people with PD, based on the internationally recognised Dance for PD® program.

As part of the pilot program, which ran from October 2013 – July 2014, QB partnered with the Queensland University of Technology – Creative Industries (Dance) and Health (Movement Neuroscience), and the University of Queensland – Health and Behavioural Sciences (Physiotherapy) faculties to conduct initial research into the effects of these dance classes.

This was the first study of its kind in Australia with the results concluding the QB Dance for Parkinson’s pilot program classes affected people living with Parkinson’s in multiple ways including valuable physical, emotional, social, and cognitive benefits.

The pilot program and research outcomes continue to inform and support the ongoing delivery of the QB Dance for Parkinson’s classes, which are delivered weekly all year round.

Anyone affected by Parkinson’s, their carers, partners and friends, are welcome to participate in these wonderfully immersive artistic experiences.

Queensland Ballet’s Dance for Parkinson’s classes are made available with the support of Dance for Parkinson’s Australia.