Face Front’s New Year’s Honour

Annie Smol, founder of Face Front Inclusive Theatre Ltd, based in Edmonton, North London was honored with an MBE for services to Theatre and Inclusion in Drama in the Queen’s New Years Honours list.

She was nominated by colleagues and Board members.

Annie who has worked with the company since 2004 was recognised for her dedication to promoting inclusion through theatre and creating genuine accessible opportunities for disabled people within the field of performing arts.

‘I am very much looking forward to receiving the MBE at Buckingham Palace’ said Annie, ‘my passion for inclusive theatre began as I became aware of the exclusion of disabled people from the arts and society.

The creative challenge of developing innovative high quality work that is multi accessible is constantly exciting to me.

At Face Front Inclusive Theatre, we pioneer positive social change through artistic excellence to create an inclusive world.

Chair of Face Front, Andrew Bradford, said ‘Face Front simply would not have evolved into the unique company it is today had it not been for Annie Smol.

Face Front is her inspiration and her leadership. Her dedication for inclusive theatre, determination and drive have enabled it to grow and provide our services, workshops, theatre performances and opportunities for the community.’

Ray Downing, Face Front Artistic Director added ‘Annie’s MBE is well-deserved, and on behalf of the whole charity I’d like to congratulate her on her achievements, and thank her for her consistent hard work, enthusiasm and forward vision of the company.

Face Front represents and works with people with physical, sensory and learning impairments, those with invisible disabilities and mental health issues, as well as non-disabled people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds.

At the root of all our work is the belief that ‘It’s about belonging’.