Annual PAMA International Symposium

The Annual PAMA International Symposium is set to take place at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York, United States. This symposium brings together leading professionals in the field of performing arts medicine to discuss the emerging themes and challenges faced by performing artists in a rapidly changing world. The event features a diverse lineup of speakers, including renowned experts such as Pamela Hymel, M.D., the Chief Medical Officer for Disney Parks, who emphasizes health and well-being strategies for performers. Other notable speakers include Mark Edwards, Professor of Neurology at Kings College London, who specializes in movement disorders, and Tamsin Embleton, a psychoanalytic psychotherapist who has edited the landmark publication 'Touring and Mental Health - The Music Industry Manual,' which addresses the psychological challenges artists face while touring. Additionally, the symposium will present a series of lectures and workshops that cover a range of topics pertinent to performing arts medicine. These include discussions on hypermobility syndromes in performing artists, mental health strategies for actors, and the impact of physical health education on injury prevention in professional ballet. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage with poster presentations that delve into various studies related to performing arts, such as the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms among double bass players and the implications of beta-blockers for music performance anxiety. The event promises to foster a collaborative environment where attendees can network, share insights, and explore innovative solutions for the health challenges faced by performers. The symposium is co-chaired by Marissa Schaeffer and Aviva Wolff, both prominent figures in the field, ensuring a comprehensive and impactful program for all participants. With a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in performing arts medicine, the symposium aims to transform the landscape of health support for artists, making it a must-attend event for anyone involved in the performing arts community.