Ben Wilson, a passionate 20-year-old dancer with Down’s syndrome from Northwich, Cheshire, is proving that dance knows no boundaries. Living with Down’s syndrome has never held him back – in fact, it’s fuelled his fire. Now, he’s making waves in the dance world with a powerful debut performance set for the Now Northwich Festival in May 2025.
A dancer with Down’s syndrome becoming a rising star of inclusive dance
Ben discovered his love for dance at just 13 through the DS Dance group – a collaboration between Down’s Syndrome Cheshire and Cheshire Dance – based in Winsford. From the start, this inclusive dance journey ignited a lifelong passion.
Fast forward to today, and Ben is thriving: he’s been an Associate Artist with Cheshire Dance since 2023, a successful applicant on a prestigious dance training programme for d/DEAF, disabled, and neurodivergent dancers at Frontline Dance in Stoke-on-Trent, and a choreographer premiering his first original work, Step Ahead, this May.
Ben said: “Being a Cheshire Dance associate dancer means so much to me. I get to work with different teachers and dance artists and have time to really develop my career in dance.”
“Before this, I didn’t know that I could become a dancer or a choreographer,” he added. “Cheshire Dance has shown me that this is an option for me.”
Why Ben’s journey as a dancer with Down’s syndrome matters
Ben’s story resonates far beyond the stage. It highlights what’s possible when inclusive opportunities, community support, and personal drive come together.
Here’s why his journey inspires:
- He proves that disabled artists, including dancers with Down’s syndrome, can thrive professionally.
- He demonstrates how emotion can be powerfully expressed through movement.
- He advocates for a more inclusive arts culture in the UK.
- He’s setting an example for aspiring dancers with disabilities nationwide.
Ben continued: “Dancing makes me feel free and lets me express all kinds of emotions, both good and bad. I love the freedom of it: it’s like a fire inside. It helps me deal with things that can be difficult for me.”
“I believe that lots of different types of people and bodies can dance, no matter how different they are!”
Local roots, national impact
Deeply connected to his hometown of Northwich, Ben also coaches at Egerton Football Club in Knutsford. But dance is his first love – and his dream is to open an inclusive dance studio of his own someday.
As a dancer with Down’s syndrome, Ben said: “My whole life is based around Northwich and so, to be able to present my first dance piece for four dancers at the Festival feels amazing.”
Emma Thomas, producer at Cheshire Dance, sees a bright future for him:
“Ben has been working with us as a dance associate for the last two years and is on an incredible dance journey.
He is open to trying new things and is very hard-working. He is a beautiful mover with a unique style and voice.
“Watching him grow and learn about a dance world that isn’t created for someone with more challenges is an incredible process. He rises to every challenge presented to him and I see great things ahead for him.”
Step Ahead: dance, poetry and passion
Ben’s upcoming piece, Step Ahead, brings together four dancers to explore friendship, relationships, and emotional expression. The vibrant performance blends contemporary dance, hip hop, and spoken word poetry—led by a gifted dancer with Down’s syndrome who’s ready to take centre stage.
Catch Step Ahead at Barons Quay Square during the Now Northwich Festival on Saturday 3rd May 2025 – a free, inclusive event suitable for all ages.