Leading global pharmaceutical company, Linthwaite and Slaithwaite-based STADA Thornton & Ross, has announced the Lawrence Batley Theatre as the first beneficiary of its STADA Community Catalyst Fund.
The Huddersfield theatre has received a grant of £1,000 to support its community productions, offering local people the chance to shine on stage in a professionally produced show.
The theatre’s annual community productions are part of an inclusive project welcoming anyone from Kirklees to participate in a professionally produced show – free of charge.
The initiative helps participants develop skills, create friendships and become part of a creative community.
Launched in April, the aim of the STADA Community Catalyst Fund is to help unleash the creativity and passion of community groups and non-profit organisations, allowing them to support people in their area and build sustainable communities.
Whether the venture focuses on health and wellbeing, community engagement, education, social action or developing a sustainable community – the fund is open to applications from any local non-profit organisation in the HD1 to HD7 postcodes helping the wider Huddersfield community.
Lawrence Batley Theatre. Image by: Mark Bickerdike
James Collett, chair of the STADA Community Catalyst Fund and chief financial officer at STADA Thornton & Ross, said: “Supporting local organisations such as Lawrence Batley Theatre is a main priority for us, as we bring to life our purpose of ‘Caring for People’s Health as a Trusted Partner.’
“The great work, outstanding performances and superb community engagement undertaken by the theatre is exactly what Huddersfield needs and we are proud to be able to make this happen through this grant funding.”
Becky Dash, chief executive of Lawrence Batley Theatre, added: “We are hugely grateful to STADA Thornton & Ross for its generous contribution to this year’s community production.
“Thornton & Ross was one of the founding donors of Lawrence Batley Theatre when it opened in 1994 so to have its continued support, in this, our 30th year, demonstrates an incredible legacy of supporting community, arts and creativity right here in Huddersfield.
“The company’s support means we are able to continue to put the wonderful people of Huddersfield and Kirklees centre stage, celebrate their talent and provide a safe space for everyone to be creative.”
Community groups and non-profit organisations in Huddersfield interested in the STADA Community Catalyst Fund can apply for grants and support through the STADA Thornton & Ross website.
The successful applicants are chosen by an independent selection panel, consisting of several locally based STADA Thornton & Ross employees, appointed to ensure the eligibility of applicants and the awarding process for successful applicants is appropriately centred on the impact and sustainability of the initiatives.
For more information and to apply, please visit https://www.thorntonross.com/about-us/stada-community-catalyst-fund
