Dance Research Scotland (DaReS)

Focus

To continue to build on established expertise in dance-related education, medicine and science in Scotland.

Mission

To provide dance practitioners, researchers and academics with a specialist network hub that they can identify with. The DaReS network provides a space for belonging, acting as a useful vehicle for discussion, critical debate, consultancy and collaboration.

Vision

To externally link research and impact whilst signalling knowledge exchange activities and innovation happening across the dance sector in Scotland.

Objectives

1: Drive a co-created translational research agenda

To initiate and accelerate a translational research agenda co-produced by academic and professional dance communities. This agenda will prioritise pragmatic investigations into key areas of the Scottish dance ecology, including dance science, health and wellbeing, educational practice, and the development of practitioner expertise, with the goal of establishing dance as an evidence-informed profession.

2: Cultivate a dynamic and interdisciplinary network for knowledge exchange

To stimulate meaningful dialogue and foster sustainable relationships between academic researchers and key organizational stakeholders within the Scottish dance sector. This will be achieved by facilitating accessible knowledge exchange through virtual, hybrid, and in-person gatherings, with the aim of promoting interdisciplinary approaches that advance methodological designs and applied practice.

3: Build capacity and secure the future of dance research

To provide targeted integration and development opportunities for early career researchers and professionals, equipping them with the skills to support an evidence-informed dance sector. This foundational work is intended to enable the network to leverage its collaborations for future success in securing larger-scale, nationally and globally significant funded research projects.

DaReS will be holding regular network meetings. Please use the link provided below to sign up so you can be informed about our meetings and events.

Or for more information, contact the DaRes lead, Dr Wendy Timmons, wendy.timmons@ed.ac.uk 

Dance Research Scotland Network mailing list

Learn more about the DaReS steering group, members and partner organisations.

Members and partnerships