From functional dissociation to creativity in groups: The effects of a pandemic on a dance company

Abstract

This article explores group creativity following the lockdown in France from March to May 2020. Questioning its impact on established groups led us to formulate two hypotheses. First, the announcement of these measures provoked what Anzieu (1981) has referred to as a ‘state of creative shock’ in existing group structures. Second, the psychic envelope of these groups enabled a group creativity to emerge and be sustained. We support these remarks with an analysis of non-directive and semi-directive interviews (Lincoln, 1995) as well as recordings of sessions of a contemporary dance company, which were carried out via the Zoom platform throughout the lockdown period.