This collection examines the intrinsic and complex relationship between health and dance. Meant primarily for balletomanes, including dancers, choreographers, coaches, researchers, physicians and journalists, among others, it includes rigorous academic analysis, presented in a detailed and informed way, as well as comments and descriptions of personal impressions, experiences and perceptions.

Danse et santé is divided into six parts, each made up of related articles in which the writers examine their perspective on health and dance. Giving a voice to these various contributors —all are involved with the world of dance—reinforces one of the central ideas of this work. Indeed, many of the texts suggest taking an approach whereby the dancers work with their colleagues to take charge of their own health and safety in the workplace. Others suggest that, although self-knowledge and kinesthesia go hand-in-hand with the aesthetic and artistic quest central to performance and creativity, listening to others and teamwork both play a major role in dancers’ safety. Yet others point to the importance of government, unions and society in providing a framework for health, safety and injury prevention for performing artists.