13 Apr meet Ilona Baldacchino – on Dance , Diversity, Inclusion
Ilona has been one of Opening Doors’ dance assistants for the last two years. She is also a psychology graduate with a Masters Degree in Performance Studies in Dance and regularly teaches ballet as well dance and movement sessions for children on the disability spectrum.
Next up for Ilona; she will be conducting a lecture/demonstration at Roehampton University, London from 19-22 April 2017, during the Conference: Staking a Claim for Dance Studies in the 21st century. Based on her work with Opening Doors, her presentation will focus on an exploration of dance with adults with learning disabilities titled; DANCE – DIVERSITY – INCLUSION.
The aim of her research study is the creation of a dance devising model – a set-up which encourages dancers to work with young adults with learning disabilities.
This approach goes beyond merely dancing or moving to music. It creates a special dance performance. Since everyone is different, it allows people with learning dis/abilities to take ownership of their creations, and therefore establish their own ‘voice’ through movement.
Ilona’s study highlights the importance of the dance members’ role in the devising process, enabling active participation throughout. This approach challenges misconceptions on learning disabilities in Malta.