Suffolk is leading the way with the introduction of new accessible theatre groups, helping to foster creativity in people of all abilities.

All-inclusive Ipswich theatre group the Magpie Performers are presenting Snow White and the seven dwarves with a twist at DanceEast from January 19-21.

East Anglian Daily Times: The Magpie Performers are staging Snow White and the seven dwarves at DanceEast in late January.The Magpie Performers are staging Snow White and the seven dwarves at DanceEast in late January. (Image: The Magpie Performers)

Director Catrina Field highlights the importance of actively advertising their theatre group as "all-inclusive", saying it helps prospective members to know that they're "accepting people as they are".

Mrs Field says the Magpie Performers was created with the specific intention of being accessible to as many people as possible.

East Anglian Daily Times: Katrina Field is the director of the Magpie Performers and has played a pantomime Dame in the past.Katrina Field is the director of the Magpie Performers and has played a pantomime Dame in the past. (Image: Katrina Field)

"We're hoping that our latest performance will help people to see others like them on stage," she said.

"Representation is key, to show that nothing can stop these actors from performing."

Mrs Field added that it's vital to ensure the continuation of these groups as Suffolk begins to become a safe space for performers of all abilities.

Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds also provides accessible creative spaces and is now in its second year of providing new non-verbal youth theatre groups.

East Anglian Daily Times: Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds has launched a new SENsory Youth Theatre class for 2023.Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds has launched a new SENsory Youth Theatre class for 2023. (Image: Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds)

Since they launched in September 2021, 19 young people who are neurodivergent, learning disabled or identify as having other sensory needs have participated in these sessions.

This year, it has announced a new name for the groups - SENsory Youth Theatre - and has introduced a brand new class for four to seven year olds.

Theatre Royal's head of creative learning, David Whitney, is excited about the positive impact these groups have: "SENsory Youth Theatre is some of the most important work we deliver at Theatre Royal.

East Anglian Daily Times: Since the classes were launched in September 2021, 19 young people have participated in the SENsory Youth Theatre sessions.Since the classes were launched in September 2021, 19 young people have participated in the SENsory Youth Theatre sessions. (Image: Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds)

"It's really vital that we provide accessible and inclusive creative learning opportunities that are not elitist, that meet the participant's need and the level they are currently working at."

Mr Whitney has also seen the benefits of accessible theatre first-hand, noting that he's seen many people flourish under their programme.

"One of the highlights for me is when, at the end of the year, we do our celebration and bring in a company to perform for and with the participants."