Dance and Parkinson's 'oop North hosted by More Music in Morecambe

A different sort of dance class has come to Morecambe.
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A class specifically designed for people affected by Parkinson’s Disease.

Helen Gould, lead artist said: "It’s been incredible to see the classes grow and to witness confidence levels build week by week.

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"People feel more positive after class and we witness improvement in movement fluidity. So, in that respect the project has been a fantastic success."

Dance and Parkinson's 'oop North hold dance classes for people with Parkinson's in Morecambe. Picture: Victoria Sedgwick.Dance and Parkinson's 'oop North hold dance classes for people with Parkinson's in Morecambe. Picture: Victoria Sedgwick.
Dance and Parkinson's 'oop North hold dance classes for people with Parkinson's in Morecambe. Picture: Victoria Sedgwick.

Dance and Parkinson’s ‘oop North is run by LPM Dance and is hosted by More Music.

The classes are part of a wider programme of community dance work delivered by LPM Dance, a small artist led company based in Lancaster.

Classes were launched in September with support from National Lottery Community Grants.

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Research shows that dance helps with the coordination and mobility problems often associated with Parkinson’s Disease and has also been shown to improve general well-being.

Artists Helen Gould (LPM), Mel Brierley and Elisa Macauley deliver the programme across Lancashire, with other classes in Blackpool, Blackburn and Preston.

Helen said: "The classes have had a wonderful energy and understandably we were all upset when we had to suspend the programme mid-March.

"But ensuring safety of the group was vital. The suspension has had a real impact on many participants who look forward to the weekly class and are now struggling with the impact of social isolation.

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"We’re now looking at ways we can continue our work in some way.

"There are some of our classes which can be translated on to a digital platform.

"And for some of our dance and Parkinson’s participants we’ve been able to deliver one to one classes via Zoom safely and effectively.

"But for many, digital platforms are not an option. It’s a challenging time for us all but we remain optimistic and ambitious.

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"We will be putting our unique and creative talents to the test in order to find the best ways of supporting some of the most vulnerable in our community over forthcoming months bringing health and happiness through dance."

If you would like to read more about Dance and Parkinson's 'oop North visit https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/save-lpmdanceemergencyfund

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