Meaning: The quote by Siobhan Davies sheds light on the challenging and often precarious nature of the professional dance industry. It reflects the reality that many dancers face in terms of employment and financial stability. Siobhan Davies, a renowned British choreographer and former dancer, is known for her thought-provoking and innovative approach to dance. In this quote, she acknowledges the limited and intermittent nature of employment for her dancers, highlighting the financial strain and uncertainty they experience.

Siobhan Davies' statement encapsulates the common practice within the dance world where dancers are often hired on a project-by-project basis or for specific seasons, leading to periods of unemployment or underemployment. This precarious working arrangement is not limited to a specific region or dance company but is a widespread issue in the dance industry globally.

The first part of the quote, "Well, it's not full time - my dancers are only paid for six months of the year in two three-month blocks," underscores the transient and temporary nature of employment for dancers under Davies' direction. This type of employment model can present significant challenges for dancers who must navigate periods of financial instability and uncertainty about their future prospects.

The second part of the quote, "but yes, it is possible we could do it in another year," hints at the potential for future work and opportunities, yet it also implies that such prospects are not guaranteed. This uncertainty can take a toll on the mental and emotional well-being of dancers, as they grapple with the unpredictability of their careers.

Dancers often face the pressure of securing their next job or contract while simultaneously striving to maintain their physical and artistic abilities. The constant cycle of auditioning, rehearsing, performing, and then seeking the next opportunity can lead to a high level of stress and anxiety. Additionally, the financial strain of irregular employment can impact dancers' ability to access essential resources such as healthcare, training, and stable living conditions.

It is important to recognize that the challenges highlighted in Siobhan Davies' quote are symptomatic of broader systemic issues within the dance industry. These issues include limited funding for the arts, the prioritization of short-term projects over sustained employment, and the undervaluing of dancers' labor and contributions to the cultural landscape.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, with many dance companies and performance venues facing closures and budget cuts. The pandemic has resulted in the cancellation of numerous dance productions and live performances, further diminishing opportunities for dancers and amplifying financial insecurity within the industry.

In response to these challenges, there have been calls for structural changes within the dance world to better support dancers and ensure more stable and equitable working conditions. This includes advocating for fair wages, longer-term contracts, and improved access to resources such as healthcare, pensions, and professional development opportunities.

In conclusion, Siobhan Davies' quote serves as a poignant reminder of the complex realities faced by professional dancers, highlighting the need for systemic change within the dance industry. It prompts us to consider the value of dancers' work and the importance of implementing measures to ensure their well-being and sustainability in their chosen profession.