Overview

DEL Creative Dance Teaching for Older Adults

January 14, 2026

Join DEL facilitator, Dr. Dagmar Spain, for a recorded webinar that explores innovative approaches to Creative Dance Teaching for Older Adults (65+) through the lens of DEL Dance Framework - a framework based on Laban Movement Analysis (LMA) as applied to dance education. 

In many dance environments, instructors and facilitators are considerably younger than their participants—bringing different physical abilities, learning styles, and perspectives to the studio. Dr. Spain emphasizes that effective pedagogy for older adults must be grounded in their learning experiences, physical realities, and personal histories.

Participants will learn how the DEL Dance Framework can guide the creation of collaborative, dialogic dance spaces—environments where older adults are encouraged to explore and express their unique movement identities. The session will highlight how dance can foster vitality across physical, mental, and emotional dimensions while promoting self-expression, community, and transformation.

Key Topics Include:

1.      Overview of older adult education and its relevance to dance (theoretical foundation)

2.      Applying the DEL Dance Framework to creative dance classes for older adults

3.      Building dialogic spaces—how to foster collaboration and shared meaning in the studio

4.      Structuring classes and developing syllabi that support embodied and inclusive learning

5.      Testimonies from older adult participants—stories of creativity, transformation, and joy through dance

Takeaways: Educators will leave this webinar with practical tools and reflective insights for designing dance experiences that honor older adults’ diverse abilities, life stories, and aspirations—empowering them to move, connect, and create with confidence and vitality.

All registrants receive access to the recorded session through June 30.