Dance and Embodied Storytelling

Stories That Connect Us

Not all stories are spoken. A familiar dance might evoke memories of a wedding, nights out with friends or community celebrations. Movement inspired by travel, nature or music can also encourage people to use their imaginations and create completely new stories together.

Participation doesn’t have to mean standing or dancing. Seated movement, hand gestures, facial expressions, tapping, listening and observation can all be meaningful.

The emphasis should be on enjoyment and expression rather than performance.

What It Can Look Like

During a movement session themed around travel, people used scarves and gentle arm movements alongside music inspired by trains, ships and seaside holidays. Soon, stories emerged about honeymoons, day trips and family adventures.

Always adapt movement to individual abilities, comfort and energy levels, ensuring people can choose how or whether they participate.

Bringing Stories to Life

With the National Day approaching, could your Stories That Connect Us celebration include a movement story created together?

Perhaps residents could choose meaningful music and movements, families could contribute favourite dances, or a local dance group or school could collaborate with your care community.

You could even create an imaginative journey inspired by the stories you’ve collected throughout the campaign, travelling through favourite places, celebrations and experiences using music, movement and sensory props.

There is no “right” movement and no perfect performance required.

Every gesture can tell a story, and every person can be part of creating it.

Share with us how you get involved in the National Day of Arts in Care Homes by tagging us on social media, using #AICH2026 or sending your stories to ellie@napa-activities.org.uk