Freelance or Theater Dancers - who has a higher work ability?

Rationale : Although freelance and theatrical dancers are subject to similar physical and psychological demands, their working environments differ considerably. Nevertheless, in the practical field, there is a prevailing view that one working model is inherently more challenging than the other.
Purpose : The objective of this study is to gain insight into the work ability of dancers in both settings and to identify the factors that influence it.
Methods : A questionnaire survey was employed to gather data on sociodemographic variables and specific dance-related factors, including Work Ability Index (WAI) scores. The participant group consisted of 247 individuals: 172 freelance dancers and 75 theater performers. Differences between the groups were examined using analyses of variance (ANOVA), along with various parametric and non-parametric statistical tests. Additionally, multiple generalized linear regression models were employed to identify factors affecting WAI scores.
Results : The findings indicate that both groups exhibit moderate to good work capacity, with no statistically significant difference observed between freelance and theater dancers (p = 0.984). Notable differences between the subgroups were observed in age (p = 0.008), ethnicity (p < 0.001), dominant dance style (p < 0.001), weekly training hours (p < 0.001), number of workplaces (p < 0.001), and work content distribution (p < 0.001). The regression analysis indicated that negative predictors of WAI included female gender (RF = -2.438, p < 0.1), non-binary gender (RF = -7.822, p < 0.5), and an increasing number of workplaces (RF = -1.125, p < 0.05). The involvement in commercial dance (RF = 6.399, p < 0.01) and jazz dance (RF = 6.503, p < 0.01) was identified as a positive factor.
Conclusions : This study illuminates the intricate nuances of work ability within the professional dance sector, elucidating both similarities and differences between freelance and theatrical dancers. Further research is needed to explore the specific challenges faced by female and non-binary dancers, highlighting the importance of developing supportive interventions tailored to their needs.