The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) resulted in a global pandemic with unprecedented consequences. Worldwide, governments were forced to implement measures to reduce the rapid spread of the disease including banning of all school activities (classes, rehearsal and performances). In the Netherlands, performing arts students were unable to attend classes at school from the 16th of March to the 15th of June (13 weeks).  After 15th of June, adapted classes gradually restarted for those students that were able to get back in school.

This project investigates the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown on the physical and mental health of performing arts students. Data from the Performing artist and Athlete Health Monitor are used to compare the physical and mental health of students during the pre-COVID-19 period, the COVID-19 period and the post-period. The unique PAHM data provides answers to COVID-19 related questions and challenges, and showcases the added value of cohorts in times of COVID-19. Currently, PEARL researchers are working on three scientific COVID-19 publications.

This project is funded by Codarts Rotterdam and the Taskforce for Applied Research (Nationaal Regieorgaan Praktijkgericht Onderzoek SIA).