Dance Rehab at STARS

Dance Rehab is an innovative therapeutic dance program tailored to the unique needs of patients undergoing rehabilitation and treatment at STARS, in partnership with Queensland Ballet’s Van Norton Li Community Health Institute.

Patients who attend the sessions participate in a modified dance program, with seated and standing movement options to suit all. Since the launch in May 2024, over 200 patients have been involved in the program.

By harnessing the joy of dance, Dance Rehab promotes emotional wellbeing, assisting in steps towards recovery in a positive and empowering way.

Director of Physiotherapy Haylee Kajewski has found the regular class has provided many therapeutic benefits for patients.

“Dance Rehab meets patients where they are in their recovery journey, tailoring movement sequences to the capabilities identified by participants and their therapy teams,” Haylee said.

“Participants with conditions ranging from stroke and spinal cord injury through to fractures and falls have taken part, demonstrating the program’s versatility.

“This personalised approach has boosted motivation with many of the participants eagerly anticipating the sessions, proudly showcasing their clinical progress to the Queensland Ballet Teaching Artists and fellow patients.”

For Director of Van Norton Li Community Health Institute at Queensland Ballet, Zara Gomes, the value of the Dance Rehab program lies in sparking joy and possibility, beyond patients’ time in hospital.

“The sessions are themed to incorporate current Queensland Ballet productions or special times of the year, immersing participants in movement to music that connects to the wider community,” Zara said.

“Patients and their families are provided with information to encourage their continued participation in community dance following their discharge from hospital.”

For Dance Rehab participant Billie, the session is the highlight of her week.

“I have been going every week since I’ve been in hospital, it is so much fun,” Billie said.

“Everyone can work to their own level – it is easy to follow and not too complicated.

“I didn’t really have a strong interest in dancing or ballet before, but I love this. I’ve really benefitted from coming along.”