People Dancing

The Disabled Dance Artists Network (DDAN) was formed in 2021 and serves as a dedicated platform for disabled dance artists across the UK to converge: offering support, professional development, opportunities and the sharing of best practice. In 2024, we aim to continue the work of the network through the facilitation of connections among disabled artists, online sessions, and through newsletters and in person gatherings.

On the 19th of June, we welcome dance artist Suzie Birchwood who will deliver a 30 minute practical session, followed by some group discussions. This event will be co led by Louise Wildish – Head of Inclusion at People Dancing and Lauren Russell - Resident Artist at People Dancing and freelance dance artist located in the Midlands.

If you wish to participate in the practical element of this session you will need a safe moving environment, comfortable clothing and water.

Please note this event is only for dance artists who identify as disabled. 

Free to disabled artists who are People Dancing Members or Network members. £5.00 for disabled artists who are non members.

If you are not a member of People Dancing, and the ticket price is a barrier for you to attend, please email emma@communitydance.org.uk

Book your place here

Booking deadline: Midday Tuesday 18 June 2024.

Access

Please book early if you require access support. Bookings made after 5th of June cannot be guaranteed to accommodate all access requests due to adequate notice given. If your disability means that booking early is difficult due to a fluctuating condition, please get in touch to arrange booking if this is after the sales have closed.

Can’t make the event?

Still have your say! As we continue to plan for the coming year, we value your input to ensure that our events and communications meet the needs of our diverse community of dance artists. If you can’t make the event that day we would like to ask really like your thoughts. Your feedback is invaluable so please fill in this survey: https://forms.office.com/e/HvgwPabkak. It should only require 5 minutes of your time.

About Suzie Birchwood

Suzie is a disabled dancer and dance educator. As an educator, Suzie supports artists in the discovery and nurture of their individual and unique movement.

Guided by Universal Design principles, she embraces every dancers journey, empowering them to discover their authentic artistry.

Suzie’s passion for inclusivity drives her commitment to ensuring equitable access for all, inspiring a more diverse and vibrant artistic community.

About Lauren Russell

Lauren is both a dancer and co-ordinator for ID Dance, a Leicester based company working with different bodies and minds.

Last year she performed with Propel Dance in their inaugural production of the Snow Queen. Lauren’s Resident Artist post at People Dancing is supported by Epic Arts.

Photo credits: Top: 11 Million Reasons to Dance: Cymru project, 2021. Photographer: Philip Hatcher-Moore. Middle: Selfie. Suzie Birchwood. Bottom: Lauren Russell. Photographer: Dani Bower.