At Dance City, we see every day how dance can lift people’s spirits. Dancing isn’t just physical exercise; it’s emotional, social, and creative too. Here’s how it makes a difference:
- Mood boost: Moving to music releases endorphins and dopamine — the body’s “feel-good” chemicals — helping to reduce stress and lift mood.
- Focus and mindfulness: Learning choreography or moving freely helps quiet racing thoughts. Dance brings your attention into the present moment.
- Connection: Sharing space, laughter and rhythm with others builds belonging and combats loneliness.
- Expression: Dance lets us express feelings words can’t always reach — joy, sadness, anger, pride — and release them through movement.
Joan’s story
Joan Watson, 61, is a member of Boundless, Dance City’s 55+ contemporary dance company, where older dancers work with professional choreographers, rehearse regularly and perform on stage twice a year. “Dance City has been my constant,” says Joan, 61. “I dance to live, but more importantly, I live to dance.”
Joan began dancing at the age of four, sitting her first Latin and Ballroom exam before moving on to ballet, tap, modern stage, character and national dance. Even while working 37 years in the NHS as a nurse, she kept her passion alive, taking local classes whenever work and home life allowed.
It was early retirement in 2019 that gave her the chance to put dance back at the centre of her life. That same year she attended a taster day at Dance City and later became a member of Boundless. She says: “Thanks to Dance City and the amazing choreographers, I’ve had opportunities I never dreamed of.”
Joan has performed at the Queen’s Hall in Hexham, Durham Fringe and on Dance City’s main stage, as well as with other 55+ groups including Ballet and Show Tap. She has also performed in community casts working with other dance companies at Dance City and other venues. “When you’re performing, you step into another world. It’s the most incredible feeling,” she says.
But beyond the performances, the most profound impact of dance has been the way it helped her through loss. In January 2023, Joan’s husband Douglas passed away following a short illness. She took time away from the studio to care for him during his final months. “When Douglas was diagnosed with a terminal illness, I had to put everything on hold. I knew the importance of being there with him,” she shares. Returning to Dance City afterwards was a turning point.
Joan, member of Boundless
“After my husband passed away, it was incredibly hard to think about getting my dancing shoes back on, but I knew from my NHS mental health background the importance of routine, reconnecting and occupying my time in a positive way. Dance City gave me that lifeline. Everything switches off when I’m in the studio. I can lose myself in dance.”
For Joan, the friendships and support have been just as vital as the choreography. “I’ve been met with so much love. The teachers, staff and my fellow dancers are my dance family. I’m still navigating life after loss – there are days when I wake up and just want to pull the duvet over my head – but dance gives me purpose, opportunities and people who lift me up.”
Boundless, and Dance City more broadly, have allowed Joan to reconnect with a lifelong passion and explore new creative horizons in later life. Her advice to others thinking about joining? “Don’t hesitate,” she enthuses. “It’s not just about dancing — it’s about belonging.”
