Member Article

North Tyneside performers launch theatre startup

Two performers from North Tyneside have launched their own community theatre startup, Red Diamond NE, with help from North Tyneside Council’s professional support arm, The Business Factory.

Alison Stanley and Tracy Cadman have partnered to set up the Community Interest Company (CIC), a theatre company which provides drama, singing and dance workshops across the North East, working with babies to elderly residents in care homes.

Alison approached The Business Factory, who have helped to establish 12 new social enterprises in the past 2 years, explaining the startup theatre company as a CIC.

The idea was well received by Toni Clark, The Business Factory’s social enterprise adviser, who understood exactly what they wanted to achieve and advised to go about it.

Plans are in place to expand the business with a funding application submitted for a double decker theatre bus, which will create a mobile, working theatre that can be taken into hospitals and care homes to make performing arts accessible to all.

In addition, a summer school for primary children at John Willie Sams Centre, Dudley, begins 15th August and a weekly Academy for adults is beginning this autumn, to be run out of Commercial House, in Newcastle city centre.

Moreover, Red Diamond is developing a performance called Bedsocks and Secrets which aims to highlight the treatment of dementia patients in care homes and encourage understanding of the disease, which may be debuted at Newcastle’s famous Theatre Royal.

Alison said: “Tracy and I met at an amateur dramatic society many years ago and both strongly believe that performing arts should be accessible to everyone – whatever a person’s experience, age or background.

“We’d discussed the possibility of setting up our own community theatre company for a while and then one day decided to just go for it!”

“Toni has been a fantastic help in guiding us through the set-up of Red Diamond.

“She introduced us to our bid writer so that we can access funding effectively, advised on publicity, best practice accounting and so much more.

“Just knowing she is there to double check things with and ensure we keep on the right track has been invaluable.”

North Tyneside Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for Business Support, Cllr Frank Lott, said: “It is very encouraging to hear about enterprises like Red Diamond.

“The founders have not only turned an idea into reality by setting up their own company, but their whole venture is aimed at bolstering community spirit and using their valuable experience to the benefit of local people of all generations.

“The really good news is that they’re not alone, The Business Factory is receiving an increased number of enquiries from individuals wanting to set up social enterprises.

“As such we are committed to helping entrepreneurs with a social purpose ensure their businesses are both profitable and sustainable so that they can contribute positively to the borough’s economy as well as ensuring our communities remain strong.”