Creative Health: What We’ve Learned, and How Far We Still Have to Go
Ben Anderson, Director of Lincoln Arts Centre, reflects on the inaugural Creative Health Network session, held on Monday 12 October 2026.
A short three-minute XR proof of concept developed through the wider SYMBIOSIS research in 2026. The prototype combines Finger Tutting choreography, live interaction and XR, and was tested through a closed development sharing with six participants.
This Halloween, something is waiting for a new Host.
SYMBIOSIS is an intimate, one-person virtual reality horror experience exploring mental health through the terrifying metaphor of a parasitic infection.
Step inside and come face-to-face with a mysterious Host. Through distorted choreography, haunting sound and unexpected physical encounters, the boundaries between the virtual and physical worlds begin to dissolve.
The parasite is searching for somewhere new to live. Will you let it in?
Created by director and choreographer Hal Mayer, SYMBIOSIS is a prototype work currently in development, combining immersive technology, live performance and psychological horror.
This exclusive sharing invites just 12 participants to experience the work and contribute feedback to help shape its future.
Creative & Production Credits
Production: KNOTGRIM
● Director & Choreographer: Hal Mayer
● Performers : Elleese Bradshaw, Austin Katsuro, Harry Talbot, Lexy Oyosa, Liam Bird
● Sound Design: Kieran Lucas
● Technical Specialists & Animators: Hollywood Gaming
● Videography: Jamal Sterrett
Free tickets (booking required)
Content warnings: Themes of mental health, psychological distress, parasitic infection and body horror.
Running time: 10 minutes
Age guidance: 16+
This piece unravels the unrealistic expectations on what it means to be emerging artists trying to navigate the ever-growing ceiling of success and the persistent sense of “standing on the outside”. How does a young artist tackle self-inflicted othering, setting oneself lower to established artists, and overworking to avoid being “exposed”? The dancers use movement and body language to communicate shared efforts to overcome the restrictive thought patterns of self-doubt.
HSDC Dance School Showcase is a celebration of the dedication, creativity, and talent of our students.
Pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Join us as we dance our way across the globe in a spectacular showcase bursting with energy, passion, and culture. From the bright lights of Broadway to the rhythms of Africa, the elegance of Paris to the vibrant streets of Latin America, our talented performers will transport you around the world through music, movement, and breathtaking choreography.
Stay in touch by signing up to our mailing list
Enter your details below to subscribe to our newsletter and receive exclusive offers, event announcements, projects and news