If you are looking for a special project through which to deliver your CSR commitment, Northern Stage can help. We run an ambitious participation programme of specially made projects, workshops, and discussions for schools, community groups and members of the public. Every year this programme gives thousands of people of all ages a memorable introduction to the magic of making theatre and provides opportunities for individuals to discover their own creativity, develop skills and increase confidence.

We can tailor make a project with you or you can get involved with our existing programme. Here is just one very successful example of how organisations put something back into their local community through Northern Stage:

Christmas Access Scheme:

For over a decade, local businesses and charitable trusts have brought a touch of festive magic to the lives of thousands of local children from some of the most deprived areas of our region. Their support enables children to enjoy a special Christmas treat, by providing free tickets to the theatre.

We match each supporting organisation with a school or community group, or if preferred the sponsor can nominate a group to be included in the scheme and we contact them on their behalf. After their visit, the children write directly to their sponsoring organisation with letters and pictures recording their visit as a special thank you.

Our huge thanks to the following organisations, who in 2011 made it possible for over 500 children to see our Christmas production of The Glass Slipper: The Barbour Foundation, Benfield Motors Charitable Trust, Muckle LLP, UBS Wealth Management, Ward Hadaway, John Lewis Newcastle, Cummins Ltd, RBS, KPMG, NCJ Media, Mincoffs, Edwards Commercial Cleaning, The Rothley Trust, Mr Tim Bailey, Mr Paul Taylor and Miss Jo Darby.

"Fundraising for such a great project in a difficult financial climate was definitely going to be a challenge.  However, some of our most dedicated supporters came through for us, some with donations larger than in previous years.  We added a new trust to our supporters, two new local businesses who had heard about our scheme through word of mouth and we were also extremely lucky to be given three personal donations. 

Philanthropy is playing an increasingly important role in fundraising and it is great to see people connecting with Northern Stage in this way."  Nina Ritson, Development Assistant

If you would like to support this year's scheme your donation will be credited on the Northern Stage website and you will receive a personal thank you from the children you have sponsored. The amount given is at each organisation's discretion but as a guide, a donation of £600 will enable 60 children to enjoy this special Christmas treat.

If you would like to contribute, please send your cheque (made payable to Northern Stage) to Nina Ritson, Development Assistant, Northern Stage, Barras Bridge, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 7RH. If you would like further information on the scheme, please telephone Nina Ritson on 0191 242 7236 or email nritson@northernstage.co.uk