Each year, the EDNext project investigates important thematic topics relevant to the contemporary dance sector and disseminates the findings.
In 2023, nearly 300 professionals from the broader contemporary dance field contributed their thoughts to the question of equity in working conditions. By looking at disabling conditions and systemic barriers, by discussing the periphery-centre binary, and by investigating equity in dance practices and collaboration models, we have collectively moved.
Researcher Alexandra Baybutt has followed the red thread between EDN's activities, capturing the pluralities of our field and the depth of conversation and activity on the topic. The research is informed by dance having methods and needs distinct to those of other art forms. It addresses a shared need to name and rename the key words in power. It describes three key tensions in dance exacerbating inequitable working conditions and introduces tools for organisational and individual reflection. It draws upon examples of good (and bad) practices in professional organisation and communication when trying to create equitable spaces in collaborative settings.
Nearly 300 professionals from the broader contemporary dance field contributed their thoughts to the question of equity in working conditions this year. By looking at disabling conditions and systemic barriers, by discussing the periphery-centre binary, and by investigating equity in dance practices and collaboration models, we have collectively moved.
In her insightful overview, Dr Alexandra Baybutt captures the pluralities of our field and the depth of conversation and activity on this topic. With Dr Baybutt’s tools for reflection and tools for practice, we can now make some of the emerging practices and strategies of the European contemporary dance sector accessible to many.
Illustration by Tosca Mitkowska
Read the full publication here
