‘Let’s Dance’: How to get your visitors moving in museums!

Have you ever noticed how music has the power to move us—literally? Whether it's tapping a foot, swaying to the beat, or full-on dancing in the kitchen when no one's watching, music is deeply woven into our lives. And yet, when we step into a public space—especially a museum—something shifts. The British Reserve takes over, and suddenly, we’re standing still, observing rather than participating.

But what if museums could change that? What if they became spaces where movement, self-expression, and even dancing were encouraged rather than stifled by social norms? Let’s explore how museums have tried to bring dance into their spaces—and why we might need to think differently to truly get visitors moving.

Image: Birmingham National Ballet at Birmingham Art Gallery.

The Challenge of Dance in Museums

Many museums have attempted to incorporate dance into their programming, but they often hit the same wall: people’s fear of being watched and judged. While we may love music and dance in private, public participation is another story.

For example, the International Museum of Dance (IMOD) in San Francisco aims to make dance more accessible and inclusive. It offers exhibitions, rehearsals, performances, and interactive experiences. But even there, most public participation comes from those already comfortable with dance—people who want to perform. The casual museum visitor? Not so much.

Similarly, the Tate Modern has experimented with public dance activities, but again, those who joined in were likely people already comfortable with movement. So, how do we break down these barriers and create a truly inviting space for dance?

Image: Tate Modern, Engine Hall.

Rethinking Dance Participation in Museums

One of the most fascinating approaches I’ve seen came from a conference I attended in Europe. A museum created a space specifically designed to encourage public participation in dance—without the fear of judgment. Here’s how they did it:

• The dance space was shielded from public view, so participants didn’t feel like they were on display.

• Visitors wore interactive headsets, allowing them to follow a virtual dance class without anyone watching.

• The experience was completely anonymous, meaning even those with no dance experience could feel free to move without embarrassment.

The result? People who would normally never dance in public found themselves immersed in movement, engaging with the museum in an entirely new way.

What’s Next for Dance in Museums?

Museums are trusted institutions that have preserved art, history, and even choreography for future generations. But can they go a step further and help break down social barriers around public movement? Imagine a museum where you could take part in a historic dance class taught by a legendary choreographer—one preserved through technology and interactive experiences.

If museums can find ways to remove the barriers to participation, they could offer visitors a unique, immersive, and joyful experience—one where movement isn’t just encouraged, but feels completely natural.

Final Thoughts

As a creative professional, I’d love to be part of a project that truly makes dance accessible in museums. The idea of being able to move freely in a museum—without fear, without self-consciousness—is something I find incredibly exciting. And I know I’m not alone.

So, what do you think? Would you dance in a museum if the conditions were right? Let’s start the conversation and see how we can turn museums into spaces of movement, expression, and joy!

Paul Baker

Paul Baker

Links:

International Museum of Dance

The Tate: Choreography, Conservation and The Museum