Navigating family and freelance careers: insights on the realities of family planning from mothers working in music and performing arts

This presentation explores the complex intersection of freelance careers and family planning through the lived experiences of mothers working in music and the performing arts. It focuses on incompatibility of the two worlds - work and personal life – and draws attention to emotional and logistical challenges related to family planning, which are not frequently discussed. The inherently chaotic and highly unpredictable nature of freelance work is marked by changeable schedules, last-minute gigs, and frequent travel, which consequently shape decisions around starting a family or undergoing fertility treatment. Drawing on personal narratives, this presentation highlights the demands of the creative work and freelance lifestyle, which often clash with the physical, psychological and financial realities of family planning that women performing artistic labour face and must navigate.