My name is Beth Louise Lally, I am 21 years old and I believe everyone should have access to creative arts, no matter of their background or life experiences. I grew up in Gateshead in the North East of England, then moved to York to study Drama: Education and Community at York St John University.

Growing up, I was always involved in drama and creative arts - from playing Virgin Mary in the Nativity in nursery, to being Madamme Thenardier in Les Miserables in year 13. I really struggled with the academic side of school, but found that I always excelled at drama and music as it allowed for me to express myself in a different way and helped me understand emotions I was feeling. This carried on throughout secondary school, and blossomed my desire to use drama to help others as much as it helped me. This desire was completely elevated by my university degree at York St John where I took part in various projects and placements to bring creative arts to marginalised communities, which I will discuss in more detail on different pages.