Newcastle airport partners with theatre charity

Newcastle International Airport has announced a new charity partnership to support a performing arts organisation that empowers children and young people with additional needs.

The airport has named True Colours Theatre as its official charity partner, following a staff nomination and vote. 

Based in Wallsend, North Tyneside, the award-winning charity provides an inclusive performing arts school for children with autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders and other conditions, helping them build confidence and express themselves creatively.

The partnership will see the airport raise funds for the charity and offer employees volunteering opportunities at the theatre through community engagement days.

Alice Andreasen, chief sustainability and communications officer at Newcastle Airport, said: “We are delighted to welcome True Colours Theatre as our new charity partner. 

“The charity’s commitment to enriching the lives of children and young people and providing them with a safe and happy space where they can build friendships, develop new skills and express themselves is truly inspiring.

“It is a cause that many of our staff hold close to their hearts and one that strongly aligns with our values.  

“We look forward to working closely with True Colours Theatre to not only raise funds but also learn from the work they do to support children with additional needs and understand how this could be replicated in our own passenger journeys.” 

True Colours Theatre has gained national recognition for its impact, featuring on BBC One’s DIY SOS: The Big Build in 2023, where a team of volunteers led by Nick Knowles and Gaby Blackman joined Strictly Come Dancing stars Anton Du Beke, Katya Jones and Graziano di Prima in transforming a derelict building into a fully equipped performing arts school. 

Students have since performed at major venues, including Whitley Bay Playhouse, North Tyneside Together Festival and at Autism’s Got Talent in London, which was organised by disability and neurodiversity campaigner Anna Kennedy OBE. 

Alisar-Jane Taylor, founder and chief executive officer of True Colours Theatre, added: “True Colours Theatre is a safe space for all and inclusion and acceptance is at the heart of everything we do.  

“To know our members can grow as individuals without any stigma and judgement is paramount to us and their accomplishments are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when they have the right people by their side who believe in them.

“Together we all shine to make a beautiful rainbow.” 

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