What do professional dancers need in order to practise their craft well and sustainably? That question is at the heart of a national needs assessment launched today by Dans Veilig. The study explores how dancers experience their work, the challenges they face, and what support they need to continue working safely, healthily and professionally. The research is being carried out in collaboration with the research firm Bureau Lahaut.
Why this research matters
For the first time, the experiences of dancers across the Netherlands are being examined on this scale. The results will provide an important foundation for future policy and initiatives aimed at strengthening the position of dancers in the Netherlands.
“Across the sector, we hear that dancers face recurring challenges — from workload and social safety to financial insecurity,” says Nienke Eilander, project leader at Dans Veilig. “With this study, we are gathering factual and representative insights that can help the sector align policy and support with what dancers truly need.”
Who can participate?
The study is open to all professional dancers and students in professional dance programs — from company dancers to independent makers, from theatre to hip-hop. The more people participate, the clearer and more representative the picture will be.
Take part (±10 minutes)
The online survey is fully anonymous and takes about ten minutes to complete.
Four €50 gift cards will be raffled among participants.
Take the survey: https://vragenlijst-bureau-lahaut.nl/dansveilig-behoefteonderzoek
Help spread the word
The broader the participation, the stronger the insights. Dans Veilig encourages dancers, teachers, companies, producers and other professionals to share the survey within their networks. Ready-to-use texts and visuals are available in both Dutch and English for social media, newsletters and WhatsApp.
Publication of results
The results of the needs assessment will be published in spring 2026 through Dans Veilig’s channels and shared with partners across the dance sector.