Animate Theatre was set up in 2013 to provide theatre opportunities for those with disabilities. While working as an Activities Coordinator, I could see a severe lack in local organisations that provided accessible professional theatre opportunities. I set out to change this and create a company that provided a safe creative space, pushing the boundaries on preconceptions of disability. 
The company initially began running weekly workshops, lead by professional practitioners, in all areas of theatre. Animate grew to a company of over 30 members and volunteers within a year. In 2014, our first production was a adapted version of 'The Wizard of Oz’, at the Red House Theatre, running over 2 evenings. Animate was later commissioned to write and produce a short film about Plymouth during World War 1. Endeavour, We Shall Win, tells the story of many people living through the war in the south west and their emotional journey. ‘Alice in Wonderland’ was performed in 2016 and the company later went on to create a South West touring production of ‘A Midsummer Nights Dream’. Alongside productions, Animate runs regular workshops and links with Plymouth University, teaching students skills and development for future practitioners. 
Over the past 8 years, Animate has grown and developed and aims to encourage accessible theatre across Devon and Cornwall, whilst making a clear stand and change within the South West. As I take a step back from the company, the new team are busy developing and evolving the company to encompass more engaging, ground breaking theatre opportunities.