About

Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Dance and Choreography

I explore the world through Dance.

I have a passion for utilising dance as a tool to address complex social issues. With a background in community facilitation and dance performance I am equipped to share my knowledge in this fascinating field. My research focuses on creating accessible and attainable works that raise awareness of difficult topics through my company Adaire to Dance. Previous investigations into the role and definition of entertainment, has allowed Alice to contribute to scholarly discussions in the field, holding credentials with Routledge.

In my lecturing, I remain committed to the belief that highly trained, independent-thinking dancers have the power to enrich communities and provide essential entertainment. By nurturing these creative minds, I aim to help the art form continue to thrive—a dedication that led to my shortlisting for One Dance UK's Inspirational Lecturer of the Year national award.

Professional interests

As a dedicated advocate for the arts, I am passionate about promoting dance and creative expression on both a local and national level. I sit on the board for Arts Derbyshire and am a steering group member for the East Midlands Dance Artists Network, both of which allow me to contribute to the growth and development of the arts in my region. As a proud NATD alumnus, I am committed to advancing dance opportunities across the entire country, ensuring that people from all backgrounds have access to the transformative power of the arts.

Research interests

My research focuses on using dance as a powerful tool to raise awareness of difficult and often overlooked topics. Recent projects, such as my collaboration with SHED UK on Long Covid and Arts Council-funded work highlighting baby loss, exemplify this approach. Additionally, my monograph explores the concept of entertainment, which has since evolved into a deeper investigation of how entertainment is defined in the context of parenthood—specifically for parents who are performers and artists. This ongoing research delves into the unique challenges and sources of inspiration faced by artist-parents, shaping a broader understanding of creativity and caregiving.

To see more about my research outputs visit my UDORA and ORCID pages.

Recent conferences

For a full overview of the conferences I have spoken at, and my other research outputs, please visit: Alice Marshall

Experience in industry

Before becoming a lecturer, I worked extensively in the contemporary dance performance industry. My early professional training in ballet and contemporary dance led to performances across the UK and internationally with a variety of companies and choreographers, including Paul Bloom, Cathy Seago, Katie Green, Company Chameleon, Pure Dance Ltd, and the film company Illuminos. In addition to performing, I have taught diverse community groups, with my youth groups winning the UDance Nationals multiple times. I continue to work within the industry through my Arts Council-funded company, Adaire to Dance, where I regularly choreograph and occasionally perform.

To see my full range of work visit my website, or my Linkedin Page. 

Additional interests and activities

In my free time, I enjoy baking bread and taking long walks in the countryside with my family, which provides a perfect balance to my professional life. I also love curling up by the fire with a good book, and when I have the chance, I'm not opposed to indulging in a binge-watch of a great box set. These activities offer me both relaxation and inspiration, fueling my creativity both personally and professionally.

Recent publications

Alice Marshall : University of Derby Repository