Coaching Ballet Dancers for the 21st Century: Autonomy and Self-Regulation in a Changing Culture
This project is a research-practice partnership between the Royal Swedish Ballet (RSB) and dance psychologist Dr. Sanna Nordin-Bates, designed to facilitate an autonomy-supportive culture and support young dancers in their transition into professional life. RSB has identified a need for evidence-based strategies to foster autonomy and self-regulation —
two factors shown to enhance well-being, motivation, and performance. However, classical ballet’s traditional, hierarchical structure often clashes with these needs. Drawing from research in dance, sport and psychology, the project will comprise surveys and interviews with dancers and staff, observations of company life, and finally the co-creation and delivery of a nine-month coaching programme. This will include interactive workshops and mentoring for dancers, and individual coaching for staff. Self-Determination Theory is used as an evidence-based foundation and focus is not only on what works but also on how changes can be made feasible and acceptable within ballet culture. Outcomes will include practical tools for RSB, peer-reviewed publications, and contributions to international dialogue on sustainable, human-centered approaches in elite performance environments. This project is the first of its kind in the world and positions RSB as a pioneer in using research to evolve classical ballet practice.
two factors shown to enhance well-being, motivation, and performance. However, classical ballet’s traditional, hierarchical structure often clashes with these needs. Drawing from research in dance, sport and psychology, the project will comprise surveys and interviews with dancers and staff, observations of company life, and finally the co-creation and delivery of a nine-month coaching programme. This will include interactive workshops and mentoring for dancers, and individual coaching for staff. Self-Determination Theory is used as an evidence-based foundation and focus is not only on what works but also on how changes can be made feasible and acceptable within ballet culture. Outcomes will include practical tools for RSB, peer-reviewed publications, and contributions to international dialogue on sustainable, human-centered approaches in elite performance environments. This project is the first of its kind in the world and positions RSB as a pioneer in using research to evolve classical ballet practice.