Larger than life thanks to a link

Mar 25 2008 By The Journal

COUNTY Durham based Large Productions is helping to improve the lives of local people with learning disabilities through theatre, thanks to help from Business Link.

Officially launched in February 2008, the company is a social enterprise which uses the performing arts as a vehicle to explore relevant issues, empower and realise the talents of its members.

Robert Large and Julie Cormack set up Large Productions after working together in Darlington in social care roles.

This is a sector in which the pair have over 30 years’ combined experience and something they feel passionate about.

In their last employment, one of the highlights of Robert and Julie’s roles was having the responsibility of organising the annual Christmas pantomime.

Robert said: “We both really enjoyed putting on the shows each year, as we could see that it was really building the confidence of all the individuals involved. After the Christmas 2006 show closed, we starting thinking if we enjoy this so much why don’t we do it all year round?”

To find out how to do this Robert and Julie visited a Business Link event, where they found out about social enterprises – which seemed to really fit with the way they wanted to run their business. Still wishing to keep their roots in the North East, they were advised to contact Business Link for support in getting the business off the ground.

Like many people with the seeds of a business idea, Robert and Julie were not sure of the best place to start. With Business Link’s coaching and assistance the pair were able to gain a firm understanding of putting together a business plan, manage cash flow and access financial support for their venture from ‘Awards For All’.

Robert said: “We knew there was a gap in the market for what we wanted to do, what we didn’t know was how we would make the most of it. Our account manager Suzanne Henty has been invaluable in helping us make it happen, as well as getting us through the highs and lows of setting up a business.

“It’s been great to have an independent figure just to talk our ideas through. Her insight has played a big part in informing our successful bid for Lottery Funding from ‘Awards for All’, which we have used to buy equipment, install disabled toilets and employ seasonal workers.

“If someone else believes in what you are trying to do, it boosts your own belief and makes the whole process a lot less daunting.” Thanks to Business Link support, Large Productions has now set up in its own studio located in the grounds of Darlington Memorial Hospital.

The company offers the opportunity for people to take part in original productions and workshops which are run throughout the week. They also offer flexible evening sessions, and dance instruction is available. It currently has 14 places filled with the opportunity for many more.

Suzanne Henty, account manager at Business Link, said: “This fledgling business has overcome a number of barriers and hurdles already in order to establish itself.

“Both Robert and Julie have the determination to succeed and, despite a number of initial setbacks, are now supplying a service which benefits their members and the wider community.

“I look forward to continuing to work with Large Productions in the future, by brokering in the necessary support to help it establish itself further and grow.”

Business Link’s team of expert advisers operate across the region in local access points and on a mobile basis. For further information about Business Link visit www.businesslinknortheast.co.uk or call 0845 600 9 006.To contact Large Productions call Robert on 07957 208575.