2. Does working as a performer impact on an individual's mental health? Do the variables of a touring environment effect the spectrum more so than a resident production?
There has been so much press in recent years discussing various mental health issues. I believe the media feels that in doing so - people will feel less alone, therefore more comfortable speaking out and seeking the correct help. Mental health is one of the most isolating illnesses. I feel that the arts can definitely be a way of reaching out. Dance, theatre, TV, art, film, music etc are all ways of expressing your self. This has initiated research into ART THERAPY and how the arts can help individuals outside of the profession by way of releasing your emotions through music, drama or dance.
People that headline theatre productions, star in TV and film etc are lucky in one sense because they become celebrities - although it has its negatives, this status can be very INFLUENCTIAL and in such a positive way. Lots of celebrities in our industry have been speaking out more recently about their personal struggles. Check out these celebs who spoke out in Marie Claire. I plan to do some research into an inspiration and fellow thespian of mine, SHERIDAN SMITH, who has been in the press a lot over recent months regarding the production 'Funny Girl' and her role as 'Fanny Brice'.
There are lots of communities formed around the arts, such as amateur dramatic groups, educational theatre groups, dance projects. This promotes research into AFFILIATION and the need for individuals to feel part of something. If we can use these groups to inform and inspire others in regards to mental health then what an amazing achievement!
I often take class take Pineapple Damce Studios and follow their social media page. Upon browsing Facebook this morning, I found this really beautiful video below so do check it out.
'How the light gets in' explores the physical and emotional sensations of depression. Created by Great Lake Films and Sol Dans Company. Funded by The Arts Council, England :
"Because art and culture help us build better places to live and work, and improve our health and well-being"
"Art and culture give us joy, make us healthier, let us reflect and help us empathise
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2ydMM6xENs
I read a lovely article following this video called "The psychological aspects of a dancers life." By Erica Leigh.
"We watch them in their beauty as they flawlessly glide and leap across the stage, we watch them as they finish their routine just as the orchestra hits their final note and the crowd roars, we watch them with tears streaming down our faces as they perform an emotional piece, we observe if only for a moment, the life of a dancer as they perform on stage. When thinking of a dancer we think of beauty, long legs, flexibility, perfection, and confidence. What we don’t think of is the psychological aspects of a dancer’s day-to-day life. It never seems to cross our minds that what they do is both physically and mentally demanding."
"The life of a dancer is something special, something that can be taken for granted, something that can take a turn for the worse, and something that completes a person."
"In conclusion we see that the life of a dancer is full of hard work, dedication, determination, confidence, and technique. If a dancer is not careful that world can be turned into injury, eating disorders, depression, other mental disorders, etc."
You can read the rest of the article Here
MIND is an amazing charity that supports all areas of mental illness and according to their website, anxiety & depression is the most common of them all.
"Depression is a low mood that lasts for a long time, and affects your everyday life.
In its mildest form, depression can mean just being in low spirits. It doesn’t stop you leading your normal life but makes everything harder to do and seem less worthwhile. At its most severe, depression can be life-threatening because it can make you feel suicidal or simply give up the will to live."
No comments:
Post a Comment