Performance: The Collective and Introspective

Performance: The Collective and Introspective, reflects the culmination of a year-long investigation involving the analysis of various aspects of dance performance experiences and their effects on the developing dancer. This investigation focuses on the psychological aspects of performing dance, with consideration given to the biological, emotional, educational, and social aspects involved with such experiences. The information presented reflects the most recent findings from dance research literature and a primary survey-based research study designed to assess the psychological similarities in performance experiences from a range of dancer populations. Additionally, this work reflects the author's personal performance endeavors and commentary from active dance participants in the educational and professional fields of dance. This investigation serves to not only provide a "behind the scenes" perspective on the demanding yet rewarding life of a dancer, but also provoke thought among performing artists as well as those less artistically informed.