Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
psychological implications, performing artist, dance, peak performance
College
Fine Arts and Communications
Department
Dance
Abstract
As a modern dance major at Brigham Young University and a frequent stage performer I have always been interested in learning about the full potential of the body and how to call upon it as needed. As performing artists, dancers are constantly training themselves to reach an optimal level of performance every time they are on stage. What does it take to reach a “peak performance” or enter “the zone” as many researchers in the athletic field call it? While there are obviously physiological implications to consider when evaluating peak performance, I would like to focus on the frequently overlooked psychological implications. Because dancers are generally uneducated concerning the welfare of their psychological state as performers, they frequently neglect to cater to needs such as adequate sleep, optimal health, emotional stability, and financial settlement. As a dancer, I can vouch that there is a direct correlation between the increase of unnecessary stress, which comes from unbalanced psychological situations, and a decrease in performance level.
Recommended Citation
Silvestro, Kristin and Musil, Pam
(2013)
"Psychological Implications for a Performing Artist,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013:
Iss.
1, Article 2226.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/2226