Action Space Mobile (ASM) is a registered charity and community arts organisation, based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, ASM began back in 1967 in London as Action Space. Driven by a group of Artists eager to escape the mainstream of culture by taking revolutionary work out of the galleries and into the community, relating more directly to people.  From 1971 to 1981 it moved from a derelict piano factory to converting and running the Drill Hall arts centre in London in addition to other community based projects, tours and events.  Led by one of its founder member and Artistic Director Mary Turner Action Space Mobile was constituted as a charity and moved from London to Yorkshire in 1983 continuing to develop its groundbreaking methods.  This work was carried out in communities dealing with complex social changes and issues, with people from deprived areas, people with disabilities or who were institutionalised, both in the UK and in Romania.  In 1984 it established its first fully integrated Theatre Company In the Boat.

ASM enjoys working with all people, locally, nationally and internationally, however a specialist area of pioneering work is with people with disabilities, particularly learning disabilities. These projects are run by dedicated and experienced artists, musicians, drama workers, dancers and take place in the community, in schools, day centres, outside spaces, art galleries and theatres. The work engages individuals and groups, enhancing lives, whilst promoting creativity, which we believe improves our world.

We welcome the opportunity to work in collaboration with local groups and communities. We work on a range of short, medium and longer-term projects that aim to promote social and cultural inclusion, creativity and self-esteem. Lead artists project manage and coordinate in collaboration with the company manager and artistic director; these projects may be one off needs led specialist workshops or longer term projects. Lifelong learning is a key part of the provision.