Identity crisis and talent loss : impacts of pregnancy and caring responsibilities on freelance mothers in dance

This research was commissioned by Parents and Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) to investigate the impact of pregnancy and caring responsibilities on the careers of freelance dancers/dance artists. It was conducted in collaboration with Professor Angela Pickard (Canterbury Christ Church University) and funded by Dance Professionals Fund. The research took place between July 2021 - July 2022 and offered an opportunity for reflection on challenges, barriers, and support experienced by freelance dancers/dance artists with caring responsibilities. This qualitative study, based on interviews and focus groups, is a snapshot of experiences from a sample of freelance dancers/dance artists who are parents from across the UK.