Restless Dance Theatre Brings Educators Together for Professional Development Day

Dance educators, independent artists, dancers and volunteers from across South Australia gathered on Saturday 27 June for Restless Dance Theatre’s Professional Development Day, The Responsive Arts Educator.

Designed to equip participants with practical tools for creating more inclusive and accessible learning environments, the day combined movement, discussion and creative exploration, drawing on ‘The Restless Way’ recognised approach to inclusive contemporary dance.

Led by the Restless team—Larissa McGowan, Marcus Louend and Carolyn Obst—participants explored movement, improvisation, composition and collaborative creative tasks that encouraged responsive teaching practices and centred diverse ways of learning and creating.

Artistic Director Michelle Ryan and Emma Stokes shared insights into the Restless ReMix project, highlighting its commitment to training, research and leadership in inclusive dance and the company’s ongoing work to build capacity across the arts sector.

The day featured a keynote presentation from Kerrin Rowlands, Lecturer in Arts Education at Adelaide University, whose thought-provoking session inspired conversations about the future of inclusive dance education and the importance of creating learning environments that are responsive, accessible and welcoming for all.

The Responsive Arts Educator Professional Development Day reflects Restless’ belief that inclusive practice begins with curiosity, collaboration and a willingness to adapt. Drawing on more than 35 years of experience working alongside neurodiverse and disabled artists, Restless provides educators with practical, hands-on strategies that can be applied across classrooms, studios and community settings.

Participants left with a toolkit of adaptable approaches designed to foster creativity, support diverse learners and build confidence in delivering inclusive arts experiences.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this year’s Professional Development Day and contributed to such a generous exchange of ideas, creativity and collaboration. We are also incredibly grateful to Carolyn Obst for coordinating another inspiring day of learning and connection.

We look forward to welcoming educators, artists and community members back for our next Professional Development Day.

If you’re interested in future professional learning opportunities with Restless Dance Theatre, or would like to learn more about our education programs, contact education@restlessdance.org.