A Northumberland-based social enterprise that uses the creative arts to empower adults with learning difficulties is celebrating a major milestone – a move to its own premises that will help secure its long-term future.
Stage Fright CIC, founded by Linda Ferris, has gone from a grassroots drama group to a fully-fledged creative learning space in just two years.
With support from the Business with Purpose Service delivered by the North East BIC and her dedicated Business Adviser Judith Falla, Linda has transformed her vision for inclusion through the arts into a growing, sustainable business.
“We started off in a small room at Hexham Community Centre which was lovely but as it could only hold four people we outgrew it quickly,” Linda says.
“Now we’ve moved into a former shop on Battle Hill, right in the heart of Hexham. It’s doubled our capacity and the location is incredible. The footfall and visibility are a real asset to the business.”
The new space not only allows for more creative sessions but also opens up new income streams. One of the shop’s windows is being turned into a mini creative market, showcasing work from local makers in return for a small commission.
And with plans to hire out the venue for pop-up shops, workshops, and community groups, Linda is building a model that blends social impact with financial stability.
Linda became aware of Stage Fright while working in adult social care. It had been running as a weekend drama group for 20 years before pausing during the pandemic – much to the disappointment of one of Linda’s autistic clients who really missed the meet-ups.
“I got in touch with the original organiser and offered to help bring it back,” Linda says. “Once I got involved, I realised just how much potential it had. I had big ideas to build on the foundations and create something educational and transformative.”
That vision is now a reality with Stage Fright CIC offering a range of creative workshops including drama and performance, photography, film production, and art and design projects. The group has produced short films – including a horror movie currently being filmed around Hexham – and exhibited photography in local venues such as the Forum Cinema and Hexham Abbey.
“Our work is integrated into the community,” says Linda. “We’re not just making art – we’re building confidence, skills, and self-worth. Seeing our clients so proud of themselves and their achievements is what drives me.”
Business with Purpose adviser Judith has been by Linda’s side throughout the transformation of the business. They were introduced by Northumberland County Council when Linda realised she wanted to grow the group into something more sustainable.
Working through the Business with Purpose Service, which aims to support the growth of organisations with a social purpose, Judith provided a series of free one-to-one support sessions to dive into the details of Linda’s business aspirations.
She helped Linda to build her business plan, develop workshops and services, and explore funding options.
“When we first met, I felt a bit stuck with my ideas,” Linda admits. “I didn’t know how to make them happen. But every time I talked to Judith the answers just started to flow. She never told me what to do – she gave me the space and support to figure it out for myself.
“As a single director, having someone to talk through problems and uncertainties was amazing.”
Judith’s advice has helped Linda stabilise Stage Fright’s income, expand into new premises and plan for the future – including reducing her working hours.
“Until now, the business has needed me every day,” Linda adds. “But with new income streams supporting me, I can now start to breathe a little. Without Judith I wouldn’t be in this position today. She’s my guardian angel!”
After the retirement of Stage Fright’s original director, Linda took on three further directors: Joanne Leonard, Sara Walton and Angela Watt. The team also employed a freelance drama and photography facilitator Andrew Healey.
“It has been great seeing Linda grow in confidence as we worked together,” says Judith, who specialises in supporting social enterprises. “Her passion and dedication are second to none and it has been a pleasure supporting her.
“Nine times out of ten business coaching is around offering a sounding board and guidance through the maze which is running a small but growing business.”