ActOne ArtsBase (ActOne) is a company and charity providing inclusive dance and performance training for disabled and non-disabled people across the East of England and the surrounding areas. As well as an extensive programme of regular dance activity based in Hertfordshire, we provide a range of workshops that span dance, drama, art and music and pioneer our unique approach nurturing diversity and individuality. ActOne also has its own professional dance performance company involving 5 disabled and non disabled dancers, which creates and delivers unique performance and workshop opportunities reflecting the inclusive ethos of ActOne’s artistic vision.

Aims

• To involve people in dance
• To promote inclusion and a positive image of integrated communities particularly regarding disability
• To share ActOne's model of inclusive practise with teachers and parents
• To inspire confidence and self esteem
• To aid physical, social and emotional well being
• To produce high quality, vibrant and inclusive dance performances

We offer 4 types of workshops:

Company Residencies in which our professional repertoire company of disabled and non disabled dancers come to a setting to perform our latest work and lead a workshop to explore its themes.

Bespoke workshops to suit the needs and desired outcomes of schools and groups (these can meet curriculum aims and objectives)

Regular workshops including weekly sessions and after schools clubs

Off the Shelf Workshops designed by our team to explore various aspects of dance, drama, music and moving.

We are currently delivering a dance performance and workshop called 'A Sense of Beauty' for schools, hospices, hospitals, theatres and outdoor venues. This is available to book from October 2012. 

Logistics and costs

Our workshops range from 1.5 hours to weeklong residencies and are designed for 15-20 participants depending on the needs of the group. Workshops can be adapted for any age range; we work with participants between 2 and 102 years! The ActOne team are professional performers who themselves have a variety of physical and learning abilities.

Costs start at £215, although we occasionally have funding for projects that enable us to offer performances and workshops at a much-reduced price. Please ask for more details. 

Testimonials

“It was a fantastic morning. It was such a wonderful opportunity to be involved in inclusive dance. Our learners really enjoyed themselves. For some of them it was a very emotional and moving experience. I think dance is a very powerful medium of expression! The team were extremely friendly and helpful. They involved everyone in the workshop.” - Southview School, Essex

“I was surprised that some of my learners actually joined in as they have difficulties that usually prevent them from joining group activities.  Well done for getting them involved. It was a day to remember for the learners and hopefully it will be repeated.” - Oaklands College, Welwyn Garden City

Key information

• Pioneering inclusive dance practitioners
• Workshops INSET and performances