DNA's Dancing with Parkinson's programme offers dance and movement sessions which are appropriate for those living with Parkinson's and anyone living with a neurological condition, heart or circulatory disease. We are proud that this programme not only delivers a high-quality dance experience for the participants but also allows their companions if they wish to experience it alongside them.
Classes usually last for 1 hour of dancing and 30 minutes of social time. Classes are mainly seated but we encourage those who would like to, to stand. A support artist is always in sessions to share the seated version as the lead practitioner develops standing material.
Classes begin with a led warm up into various seated and standing exercises that mobilise the body and joints, encourage use of voice and rhythm and support brain function through coordination tasks. Class material is matched with rhythmic music spanning across the decades. Creative choreography is often created in collaboration with the dancers, allowing a build on material each week. These exercises test recall of memory and muscles.
All classes end on a cooldown so dancers are ready to refocus on their day ahead. We invite participants to stay at the end of the dancing session for a social lasting 30 minutes including a cuppa and a biscuit.
COLCHESTER
Weekly on Wednesdays
Time: 13:15 - 14:45
Venue: At William Loveless Hall, High Street, Wivenhoe, CO7 9AB
Suggested Donation of £5.00 per session per person to support the sustainability of the class.
Supported by the generosity of Parkinson's UK National Lottery Awards for All Fund.
Who Can Attend
- Adults diagnosed with Parkinson’s at any stage of the condition.
- Adults living with another neurological condition, heart or circulatory disease, or recovering from a stroke or other illness that may have interrupted neural pathways.
- Companions, carers, or family members who wish to support or participate alongside the attendee.
- Individuals whose health needs require supervision or clinical support beyond what our team can provide must attend with a carer, who should remain present throughout the session.
Geographical Area
- Participants should be living in or able to travel to Wivenhoe, as we are unable to provide transport.
- The venue has its own car park with accessible bays.
- Additional free public parking is available in the village, approximately five minutes’ walk away.
Referral Routes
- Self-referral: Participants or family/carers may book directly.
- Professional referral: Health and social care teams, Parkinson’s nurses, and community organisations may also refer individuals.
Level of Need
- Participants should be able to take part in a structured group session, which is mainly seated, with optional standing activities offered. Sessions include both creative movement and vocal work, designed specifically for people living with Parkinson’s and neurological conditions.
Accessibility
- Our classes are designed to be adaptable for a wide range of mobility and cognitive needs. We ask that participants inform the team of any significant changes in their condition so that appropriate support and adaptations can be maintained.
How to Attend
Please visit our booking page:
https://www.dancenetworkassociation.org.uk/book-onlineIf you need help booking, please contact us:
07490 37 47 17
info@dancenetworkassociation.org.uk