Circle dance as a tool for working with groups

Aim: This workshop will provide an opportunity for the delegates to experience circle dance and to reflect on the therapeutic use of this form of dance. Background: Circle dance is a revival of a very ancient art form, which for thousands of years has allowed different cultures and peoples to express themselves through the language of movement and dance. The circle dance repertoire includes traditional dances from different countries and cultures in addition to contemporary choreographies. Participants hold hands in a circle and repeat a pattern of steps, following the rhythm dictated by the music and related to specific dances. The author has been using circle dance since 1995, both in Brazil and the UK, in a clinical setting as well as in non-institutional and community settings. The author completed her PhD in 2014, investigating circle dance as a medium to promote occupational well-being. Academically, this study was informed by a contemporary trend in occupational therapy and occupational science and the need for sound evidence-based practice. Session plan: The author will provide an overview of the session and relevant background information. Delegates will learn and practise simple circle dances; all the dances will be fully explained. There will be time at the end for participants to reflect on their experience and to ask questions.