Elaine Thomas (Project Leader)

I am a dancer, choregrapher and teacher. I have worked with ActOne since 2004 and am a lecturer in Dance at Roehampron University.

I trained at The Urdang Academy of Ballet and Performing Arts, studied on the BA Fine Art at Goldsmiths' College and gained an MFA in Choreography from Roehampton University in 2008. I am a founder member of Collaborative Dance Experience, an artists collective dedicated to producing contemporary dance events in unusual, exciting spaces.

From 1999-2001 I was a member of Traxis live art duo and created multi-media dance and performance at galleries and festivals accross the UK. In 2001 I joined Amici Dance Theatre Company where I met Suzie Birchwood. Amici has been at the forefront of inclusive dance in the UK and internationally for more than 30 years and I am proud to perform regularly with the company as well as deliver workshops as part of their education team.

I have a background in support work for adults and children with disabilities and behavioural difficulties. I have worked in special schools, community training projects, for Mencap, with young offenders and on specialised programs for children with Autism. I believe difference is our strength and my dance workshops centre on the individual and incorporate a wide range of stimulus. I am interested in each persons creativity, expression and unique contributions. I aim to encourage new ways of moving and relating to others and discover the magic of dancing together.

Annie Fothergill (Support and Project Leader)

I did a joint honours degree in Performing Arts in the community and French Studies at Oxford Brookes University. While at uni I took part in many productions including playing 'Sandy' in Grease the musical. I have also been in a few short films, including a drinking safety advert aimed at students. When I graduated I worked with Lanternfish theatre company on their tour of 'The Sorcerer's Apprentice' musical, playing 'Billy'-the Sorcerer's Apprentice.

I have been working for ActOne for a year now, I teach Dance at Special Act, lead the Watling View and Woolgrove after-school groups and I support DanceBase Hatfield. I also assist Suzie with the UV project and I am currently working on the Hertfordshire Anti-Bullying Initiative (HABI) with Children Schools and Families. I am very excited about working on more inclusive projects and continuing my work as a community artist with ActOne!

Lorna Marsh (Project Leader)

Hi, I'm Lorna Marsh, I have been working with ActOne for just over a year now. I work with DanceBase Hatfield and DanceBase Ware. Before ActOne I was studying at Coventry University doing a Dance and Professional Practice Degree (with Honours). Within my studies I specialised in Dance/Movement Therapy and Autism Spectrum Disorder. I was the first woman in a wheelchair to graduate with a degree in dance in the UK.

My interest in the arts started in childhood. I remember performing a monologue for Princess Diana when I was 13 at the Chicken Shed Theatre Company (Oh, those were the days!). Before completing my degree I completed a course in Performing Arts and Dance at LIPA, and I have completed an apprenticeship at Orpheus with Richard Stilgoe... I think Performing Arts is in my blood - can't see my life without it!

In addition to all this dance stuff I keep myself busy working for The Qualifications Curriculum Authority (QCA) on the Disabled Peoples Advisory Panel for Education and Integration. I also give independent talks on Education and Integration, some of the highlights of this work have included lecturing at Eton College and Earl's Court.

My next venture is about to start (in June 2008). I will, in addition to my roles above, be an Independent Living Advisor. Hopefully I will be able to help others live a life as full as mine. I will be working with the Surrey Independent Living Council (SILC).

Isabel (Support Worker)

I started as Support Worker for Ware DanceBase in February of this year and have loved every moment of it. It is a joy to collaborate the two passions in my life; working with children and dance. I have a keen interest in inclusion within all social aspects and am in total agreement of making ‘the performing arts accessible to all, regardless of disability or circumstance.’ I believe all children and young people should have the ability to express themselves, thus challenging societies often closed minded expectation.

I studied Dance Studies at Roehampton University and graduated last year. I am currently working as a Teaching Assistant in a SLD school but will be leaving soon to start my PGCE in Primary Teaching. I will be studying at Hertfordshire University.

My involvement with ActOne has inspired me and given me invaluable experience to take with me through my teaching career. It has concreted my positive view on inclusion and generated a place where I have made new friends and felt part of a team.