Theatre company hosts dancing events to help Parkinson’s sufferers

A MAJOR theatre company is hosting a new dance class aimed at helping people who suffer from Parkinson’s disease.

The Hull Truck theatre company is the venue for the weekly sessions run by local Tenfoot Dance Company directors Jon Beney and Freddie Garland, supported by former Team GB and international gymnastics choreographer Pauline Phillips.

Professional musical accompaniment is provided by former Beautiful South percussionist Gary Hammond and Sam Pirt making it a unique project run by professional dancers and musicians for people with Parkinson’s.

Academic research has proved that dance can support people living with Parkinson’s to develop confidence and strength, and provide the opportunity for creativity and self-expression, while temporarily relieving some participants’ symptoms.

The Dance 4 Parkinson’s project in Hull was the brainchild of John Hinson, who has had Parkinson’s for nine years having been diagnosed at 46.

Having seen a television feature on international dance company Balletboyz and their Ballet for Parkinson’s programme, Mr Hinson discovered that the company is based in Kingston upon Thames.

A grant which was given by Hull based Help for Health then allowed the scheme to be launched.

Starting five weeks ago, the group successfully attracts people affected by Parkinson’s from across the Hull and East Riding region.

Parkinson’s disease is a longterm degenerative disorder of the central nervous system.