Jam sessions
Our sessions may include a combination of dance, music and song, reminiscence, theatre and comedy to engage and uplift session participants.
JAMS’ participatory dance and movement is very special; it is a relational art form that relies upon communication (often non-verbal), trust, and a willingness to engage.
When working in this way the dance artists' real skill (in addition to being an excellent dance leader) is the ability to build a relationship, read between the lines, observe any movement cues and draw the best out of participants whilst managing to uphold their autonomy and unique creativity.
All JAMS Facilitators adopt a person-centered approach. This means each session will be different, plans may go out the window and most importantly every individual is respected, and their contribution valued no matter how small.
JAMS has an aesthetic that is quite unique and varies greatly from group to group.
Community dance with JAMS is not driven by outcome, rather places emphasis on the processes involved in co-creating dance. Quite often through aesthetically pleasing and sensitive of the moment artworks are produced.
Dance and Movement have the capacity to:
Increase and maintain mobility
Provide an enjoyable health and fitness activity
Be a social activity
Express feelings and emotions
Experience positive and appropriate touch
Develop self confidence
Keep the brain active and stimulated
Provide a total change from daily life
To support positive changes
To promote general well-being
Something for everyone
Our movement sessions will include a combination of dance, music, song, reminiscence, theatre and comedy to engage and uplift session participants.
It doesn’t take long for a JAMS artist to get to know a group, what individuals like, what they don’t, what history they bring, what memories and skills. This all helps create a group ‘personality’ and enables the artist to offer themes, styles and specific skills to maximise engagement.
JAMS engages participants in a playful exploration of the arts. We facilitate meaningful communication and develop relationships. We play and explore; we relax and create.
There are no wrong moves, no rules to understand, no one to beat – just Joy!
Take a look at the video below to see the positive impact JAMS can have on the lives of the elderly and people living with dementia.
“I think getting the community singing together is the best thing, it gets everyone involved. You do work hard. It makes me feel happy.”