upstArt Makes Moves in Partnership with Dance for Parkinson’s

In partnership with Ruth Davidson Hahn—founder of Lincoln’s Dance for Parkinson’s—Lincoln Arts has added another project to the upstArt program. The Dance for Parkinson’s program brings dance and movement opportunities for Parkinson’s patients. Lincoln Arts’ upstArt program is designed to bring enriching and engaging arts experiences to everyone in Lincoln, with many projects created with under-resourced groups in mind.

Dance for Parkinson’s brings to Parkinson’s patients an outlet through the art of dance. In her 10-week series of dance and movement classes, Ruth helps students regain movement and confidence, in addition to other developmental achievements. The class’s focus on movement stimulates and exercises patients in ways that address symptoms of Parkinson’s.

Students begin a typical class with a seated warm-up before working with a ballet bar to help with balance and to practice different styles of dance, including ballet, tap, and lyrical. They also receive opportunities to work together to choreograph dances. Through these exercises, Parkinson’s patients improve their balance and memory, while building confidence to stand, dance, and even talk more.

After witnessing her students’ progress firsthand, Ruth says “I’m thrilled with how much dedication they have, how motivated they become, and how committed.”

The arts bring many benefits to life, be it creativity, engagement, or joy. Through upstArt’s partnership with Dance for Parkinson’s, the art of dance proves to be no exception. Lincoln Arts is ready to continue to bring the kind of confidence and expression that comes from dance in the years to come.