Movement
Cursed2Move

Filmproject 2023

Regular exercise is crucial in Parkinson’s disease, not only to maintain different physical abilities, but also enhancing the possible neuroprotective effects that can slow the progression of the disease.

Dance has therefore become increasingly popular as a versatile form of physical activity for people with Parkinson’s and their families.

But why and on what, is this fascination based on? Which skills are promoted through dancing? What changes on a motor and non-motor level? How can the effect of dance on Parkinson’s be scientifically explained? How do people with Parkinson’s and those around them experience and explain dance?

Dr Ines Debove, together with Bernese filmmaker Bettina Rotzetter, embarked on an international journey beyond the borders of Switzerland to answer these challenging questions.

The first Swiss stage of their journey took them from the Department of Dance Sciences at the University of Bern to Sabrina Jud and on to Agostina Castelletti the Parkinson’s dance group in Martigny, where they were introduced to the basic understanding of dance and movement with Parkinson’s. The expedition continued to the Netherlands, Nijmegen with the help of the renowned Parkinson’s expert Prof Bas Bloem, the scientific background of dance and movement with Parkinson’s was captured.

Finally, they visited the dance pioneer David Leventhal, founder and director of the globally successful “Dance for PD” programme, in New York.

The main protagonists of the film, however, are the many people affected by the disease and their relatives, who openly and inspiringly shared their own experiences of dance with the film team and thus contributed to a holistic understanding of the magic of dance.

The result is an empathetic and emotionally moving short film that has managed to open up a dialogue between science and society through active exchange and mutual listening.

Parkinson Transformed Mini Series Take 1 – Why Dance?

The more physically active, the easier it is to live well with Parkinson’s. This includes forms of dance, such as Tango, ballet, tap dance and seated dance. Music is also increasingly used by therapists and exercise professionals to improve walking, balance and other activities related to gait. Tango for is among the most studied type of dancing for Parkinson’s. It’s a good choice because walking is its basic step. The large strides are much like those taught during physical therapy to combat freezing episodes.

Rhythm of Life with Grace

Meet some incredible individuals who are proving that Parkinson’s can’t steal their dance. Pamela Quinn is a professional dancer and PD Coach who has had Parkinson’s disease for over 25 years. She is the founder of the PD Movement Lab in New York City. Pamela Quinn https://pdmovementlab.com/

From Parkinson Dance to Salsa meet Ken & Jane

Dancing is not just a form of art; it’s a universal language that knows no boundaries! Music is their companion, the dance floor their canvas, and Parkinson’s the challenge. But they won’t back down; keep on dancing!

Parkinsons Depression and Dance – Meet Gill

Despite life’s challenges, Gill’s spirit soars on the dance floor. Each graceful step is a victory over Parkinson’s and a reminder of the power of the human spirit.

Parkinson Transformed Take 2 – Sound of Science

We take a deep dive into a conversation between Dr. Ines Debove of Bern Switzerland and Prof. Bas Bloem in Holland. In this approach we talk about positive emotions, happiness and rhythms in combination to transform your Parkinsons and motivating individuals to discover their own beat box to combat freezing episodes. Music is generally defined as an art of arranging sound to create some combination of form, harmony, melody, rhythm or otherwise some sort of expressive content. Conventional methods are good but different could be your change.

Parkinson Transformed Take 3 – Keep Moving

Dr. Ines Debove and Prof. Bas Bloem discuss the unique aspects of dance compared to traditional rehabilitative therapies. What sets dance apart and makes it special? Ultimately, maintaining an active lifestyle is a crucial element in treating Parkinson’s disease. Nowadays, there is a wide range of services available to encourage regular exercise. So, why not consider giving dance a try?

Episode 4 – Parkinson Transformed Evidence Based Dance

In this episode, Dr. Ines Debove and Prof. Bas Bloem discuss the current evidence-based science regarding the effects of dance on Parkinson’s disease. They explore how dance impacts both motor and non-motor symptoms, which can significantly affect one’s quality of life. To learn more, tune in to this exciting interview.

Parkinson Transformed – Take 5 Music and Dance

Dance therapy has shown promising results in improving the physical and mental well-being of people with Parkinson’s disease. However, despite the positive outcomes observed in some studies, there are challenges and limitations that researchers and clinicians face when assessing the effectiveness of dance therapy. Why is this so? To learn more about this listen to the exciting interview between Dr. Ines Debove and Prof. Bas Bloom. With a special thanks to the amazing dance group in Martigny Valais Suisse and their dance teacher Agostina Castelletti for hosting our film crew.