Changing Narratives

My work offers an alternative approach to instrumentalist ideas about creativity and older people. My practice has been shaped by carefully listening to what people say. Comments like those below inform what I do and how I do it.

"I don’t want to cabbage out , I want challenge and passion”

“I want something interesting to do...not the same things week after week"

I am continually experimenting, questioning and taking risks with the content of my work with elders whilst trying to make it inclusive, enjoyable and suitable for the people and the context I am working in.


My work offers an alternative approach to instrumentalist ideas about creativity and older people. My practice has been shaped by carefully listening to what people say.

 

 
“Paula was contracted to work with a group of Elders in a creative and collaborative manner.  Her vast experience, creativity, inclusive approach, ability to listen with empathy, and her sense of humour, has transformed the group’s approach to dance and to life.”
— Lisa Blaney | Arts for Health Manager, bait Programme
 

 

Grand Gestures Dance Collective

I am artistic director of Grand Gestures Dance Collective (GGDC)  

A group of dance activists contributing to discourses on ageing from an embodied perspective. The collective's mission is to change the narrative about ageing.  We actively resist the negative stereotypes about age and the rhetoric that dominates the media about sadness, loneliness and isolation

 

Read more on the Grand Gestures Dance Collective page

 

Creative Ageing On The Blog