Do you work with, or make decisions for young people? Scottish Ballet hosted a three-day mental health and wellbeing conference with a difference.

Attendees were told to leave their suits at home and immerse themselves in dance programmes that are having a big impact on young people’s lives.

Moving Minds, an exploration of young people’s mental health and wellbeing through dance, took place on 4–6 May 2022.

The conference comprised of a blend of in-person and online events.

Day 1 (Wednesday) & Day 2 (Thursday) were hosted at Scottish Ballet in-person, whilst Day 3 (Friday) offered a digital programme available to a worldwide audience of health and social care, education and arts sector professionals. Accessibility and inclusivity were at the heart of this event.

We offered a limited number of bursaries to support freelance artists in attending this event, in conjunction with People Dancing.

Attendees had the option to choose their own event programme based on their mood, including:

• Keynote speeches from leaders in health, education, youth work and dance
• Workshops where you will learn tools used by leading dance specialists
• Performances created by both young people and professional dancers
• Panel discussions with industry specialists and young people
• Audio walks in the Hidden Gardens
• Exhibitions and film screenings
• Facilitated networking

#MovingMinds

Tether Short Film

As part of our Moving Minds Immersive Conference, attendees saw the world premiere of Tether, a specially commissioned work choreographed by Madeline Squire.

Inspired by the conference theme – an exploration of young people’s mental health and wellbeing through dance – Tether explores the importance of support, relationships and human connection through movement.

Featuring dancers from both Scottish Ballet’s main company and Youth Exchange, Tether is a celebration of the positive impact of dance on young people’s lives.