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Inclusion consulting for ballet companies

Inclusion strengthens your company’s future on every level – whether it’s reaching a wider audience, prolonging dancers’ careers, or securing your next round of funding.

 

My approach: The Suzie Birchwood Methodology

"Inclusion needs to feel like an opportunity rather than a challenge."

Language that moves

Rooted in universal design, the work of Jurg Koch and Dance Unstuck, my methodology begins from a simple premise: if a movement, a space or a concept works for the widest possible range of bodies, it works better for everyone.

Rather than adapting dance for disabled bodies, I focus on the essence of each movement and invite every body to realise it in a way that is fully theirs.

Reimagining possibility

It’s about shifting perspective. An injury, a crutch or wheelchair: they offer opportunities for possibility.

Instead of diversity being a tick-box exercise, can they be fuel for transformation?

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Black and white photo of Suzie teaching two male dancers in a studio. We see Suzie from behind, sitting in her wheelchair. Her face is turned to the right and her face is shown in profile. She's talking to the dancers.
Image: A cropped black and white photo of Suzie rehearsing with two male dancers in a studio. We see Suzie from behind, sitting in her wheelchair. Her face is turned to the right and shown in profile. She's talking to the dancers, giving them direction.

Working together

"This is an enhancement of your current practice. Engage at any level - overhauling, recognising what's going well, or adding to the existing toolkit."

Tailored to your company

Inclusion doesn’t have to mean starting over. I work collaboratively and always tailored to your company’s unique rhythm and needs.

You can choose from a variety of engagement models, including:

Observation periods

Quiet, behind-the-scenes insights that respect your flow

Partial-day workshops

Focused sessions that introduce key inclusive practices

Online content

Accessible training for your team, anytime

Hybrid training approaches

Combine in-person and digital support

Understanding your world

Time is precious in a ballet company.

Rehearsals are tight. Seasons are packed.

I approach every engagement with deep respect for your realities and I know change can feel risky.

I understand your training, touring and performance demands

I build trust by working with your team

I respect your artistic vision and existing methods

I never push for sweeping change

I offer new tools, perspectives, and language to expand your creative range

Supporting your whole team

I offer professional development for choreographers, assistants and rehearsal directors. My collaborative approach uplifts your team without putting pressure on leadership – it’s a behind-the-scenes presence that helps change grow organically.

Video: Jo Meredith, Creative Director at the National Youth Ballet, talks to camera about working with Suzie.

Jo is sitting on a blue sofa and the wall behind her is white. The sofa has two cushions - one pale green and the other is rust coloured.

Jo is a white woman with red hair. Her hair is up and her fringe sweeps across her forehead. She smiles and speaks enthusiastically about Suzie. Her eyes are kind and sparkling.

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