Moving Toward Authenticity: Experiences of Dance for People Living with and Beyond Cancer. / Samantha Gillingham (2025)

Rising numbers of people are living with cancer in the UK, and approximately 25% of those experience long-term consequences. In a time when healthcare systems are calling for non-clinical interventions to relieve challenges, dance has been shown to benefit physical and psychosocial health and the interest in the impact of arts for health and wellbeing has increased. Thus far, research has focused on Dance Movement Therapy, leaving a gap in understanding about how community dance is experienced by people living with and beyond cancer outside of a therapeutic frame. This research explores the experiences of dance for people living with and beyond cancer and which aspects of the activity are most valued in relation to wellbeing and agency. Through solicited participant diaries and focus groups, the qualitative study explored what convenience-sampled participants found meaningful about dance, the impact on their wellbeing and sense of agency, and the perspectives of dance practitioners and supporting healthcare professionals. The research was participatory, conducted over ten sessions of a community dance class led by two dance for health practitioners with the researcher holding the role of researcher-practitioner. The findings indicate that community dance can be a positive and wellbeing-enhancing experience for the community and supporting professionals. Creating safe, joyful environments is integral to supporting the rediscovery of identity and agency after a cancer diagnosis, leading to kind reclamation of the body, and deepening community and connection with peers. The findings emphasise the importance of person-centred, inclusive facilitation and the power of music and movement to restore body and mind after cancer treatment. Key points – The study addresses a research gap, highlighting the effect of community dance as an artistic practice and its significance for people affected by cancer, beyond traditional exercise (e.g. Gym). – 5 Integrating the perspectives of people living with and beyond cancer, alongside practitioners and healthcare professionals offers a multifaceted understanding of how dance fosters agency and enhanced wellbeing. – The qualitative, phenomenological approach captures and articulates the nuanced lived experiences of the cancer community actively engaging in the Movement Through Cancer dance class.