Inclusive guest lecture for HALO students

On Friday, 28 March, Yolanda van der Heijden of the Education & Participation Department had the opportunity to give an inspiring guest lesson on inclusive dance experiences at the HALO for students with 'dance' in their subject matter.

Despite the students' eagerness to commence the practical element of the lesson, it began with a brief introduction in which the students shared their own experiences. 

Then the 'dance floor' opened with a creative warm-up, with exercises done from different positions: sitting on the floor, on a stool or in a wheelchair, and standing. This was a way of experiencing the immediate possibilities and challenges of inclusive dance.

The lesson continued with dance exercises across the room, where everyone - standing or in a wheelchair - could dance along, and then a first introduction to creating teaching materials for dancers with intellectual disabilities.

In the inclusive setting, students worked together, supported each other, there was room for creativity and empathy, but above all, learning was fun. There was great enthusiasm from both students and teachers and the reactions spoke for themselves: 'This guest lesson should be offered to all students.  

Inclusive sports should be the norm. At Holland Dance Festival, we believe that sharing knowledge about unrestricted dance contributes not only to the quality of the classes, but also to creating the most inclusive dance community possible. Guest classes like this bring us closer to our goal: dance for all.