ActOne ArtsBase runs vibrant all-ability dance, theatre and arts projects all over Hertfordshire and the surrounding area.

We work in inclusive spaces where everybody feels valued. We create inspiring performances of dance and drama with people from all backgrounds, whatever their abilities.

Our goal is to make the performing arts accessible to all, regardless of disability or circumstance. Using this approach, we break down prejudice and barriers to participation for hundreds of young people.

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Suzie Birchwood

Suzie Birchwood started dancing when she was just three, having always had a great passion for the theatre and entertaining anyone who would stay still!

At the age of 16 she won a full scholarship to train as a dancer at the London Studio Centre where she spent a very happy year. When she was 17 she developed the neurological condition Dystonia, which causes involuntary, painful spasms in her back and neck. Suzie spent the next two years in hospitals; it was a long slow process but with the help of intensive physiotherapy she learnt to walk again and was able to become mobile enough to continue her training in drama, singing and later injury technique.

On leaving the London Studio Centre she worked as an actress, her credits include 'Antigone' at the Shaw Theatre, 'Wow' at the Wimbledon Theatre, Mrs Darling in 'Peter Pan', a tour of one act Chekov plays, Amy in 'Sleeping Dictionary' with Bob Hoskins and the Dub star video 'Self same thing'. During this time she was also working teaching young people from many different backgrounds and needs.

It was this combination that drew her attention to the difficulties disabled people have in becoming recognized in the theatre and how much ignorance and fear there is about different groups of people in society. She made it her ambition to break down the barriers that prevent so many people from achieving their goals. The best way to do this is through educating people, especially the young.

In August of 2001, Suzie suffered a severe Dystonia relapse leaving her in a wheelchair. Rather than stopping her it made her even more determined to continue and develop her work in dance and drama with young people of all abilities. In September 2001 she became the Joint Artistic Director of the HIT project, an inclusive theatre group for children and young people. She then started the Act One Theatre School at the Wyllyotts Centre, teaching a variety of theatre skills to young people of all ages.

ActOne now helps hundreds of young people and adults gain confidence through inspiring performances of dance, drama, and music.

My daughter is proud to be a member - it boosts her self esteem. She is not made to feel different from anyone else, but part of a world where everyone is different, and can work together