Current Project:
TL Emoting & Vitality

The aims of this research will be to (RQ1) explore how each of the Native American Powwow and HBCU band dance cultures approach emoting before and after performance storytelling and (RQ2) analyze this through a cross-cultural perspective in the psychological processes behind emoting through the PERMA-V wellbeing theory.

The study will run for six months with a follow-up two months post-project conclusion. Participants are only needed for one up to three days max. Please click/tick on the Emoting & Vitality Info box below for details and criteria. The study will run up until July 2024 with a follow-up two-month post-project conclusion. The options to participate:

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        A) RQ1 only – observation of rehearsal and questionnaire about the preparation leading up to a performance, observing performance, and post-performance questionnaire. [Half day up to one day max]

       B) RQ2 only – complete six (6) online questionnaires randomly distributed amongst participants, in-person interview or focus group, or a blend of the two options. [one day up to two days max]

      C) Both RQ1 &RQ2 – the above participation options within two or three days max.

• Participant Groupings: Performers (primarily dancers only ranging from the marching band's auxiliary teams and drum majors to Native Indigenous performers), Dancing Musician/Singers (only marching band members that play instruments while performing movement and host drum players all while singing), and Storytellers (gatekeepers that lived the experiences and currently pass down the culture's legacy to future generations including Director of Bands, band assistants, group leaders, alumni, elders, Powwow announcers, and representatives of Emoting & Vitality Research Project collaborating institutions or organizations).

• Language: English spoken must be either the first, second, or third language; participants provide their sign language interpreters if needed (PISL, ASL, BSL, NZSL, LSF, ISF, JSL, CSL/ZGS, YSL, DGS & SASL)

• Injuries: (RQ1) No injuries (fractures, dislocations, concussions, post-surgery) within four months of the research for the performance observation. (RQ2) No post-concussion syndrome symptoms or signs of brain injuries within the past two months for research interviews and surveys.

If you would like to participate in this study, email Zahra.c22.383@edu.trainitylaban.ac.uk with your 30-minute availability to schedule a briefing to answer any questions or concerns. If you are ready to participate, complete the Project Participant Eligibility Survey below. Thank you for your time and consideration!