Our History

ActOne ArtsBase was started in January 2000 by freelance dancer and choreographer Suzie Scambler who is herself a wheelchair user. Having worked extensively in both disabled and mainstream arts Suzie recognized the boundaries between disabled and mainstream groups and the lack of opportunities for disabled people to access training in the arts and professional work.

The company originally focused on workshops in mainstream and special needs schools, theatres, arts organizations and community centers. In January 2002 we opened the first of our regular projects DramaBase (formally ActOne Theatre School) in Potters Bar. A year later we launched DanceBase in Hatfield and at the same time formed links with the HIT project in Bushey and Special Act in Harpenden.

ActOne projects now regularly involve approximately 150 young people from all over Hertfordshire and our workshops and projects reach around 500 participants per year. The company has 13 members of the team in full and part time roles and is governed by the ActOne board of Directors/Trustees. All members of the team are highly skilled at drawing out the very best in each individual and are fully committed to the inclusive arts.