Creating new opportunities

Tell us a little about Kynren and its mission.

Kynren is an award-winning live action outdoor show that takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through 2000 years of English history, myth and legend.

Performed on an epic scale, it features a cast and crew of 1000 volunteers, bringing history to life on a seven-and-a-half-acre stage – equivalent to five football pitches – with an 8000-seat tribune in Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

Kynren’s mission is to inspire and educate audiences while driving tourism to the region, encouraging overnight visits and supporting the local economy through jobs, training and skills development.

And we are now expanding with Kynren, through The Storied Lands, a new time- travelling theme park planned to open in summer 2026, which will feature epic shows and immersive experiences.

It will create significant new employment and training opportunities, further strengthening Kynren’s impact on the local community.

How did your membership with the North East Chamber of Commerce begin, and why did it feel like a natural fit for Kynren?

Kynren benefits from being part of the North East Chamber of Commerce’s extensive network, which connects us with businesses and organisations that share a common goal of driving economic growth and enhancing the region’s profile.

We approached the Chamber to explore how we could be part of this network and collaborate with other members to build awareness of Kynren and its impact on the local area.

The Chamber’s focus on supporting the region aligns with our own ambitions to make Bishop Auckland a key cultural and visitor destination.

Engaging with other members helps us form valuable relationships that can lead to new opportunities for partnerships, sponsorship and support.

How has the membership benefited Kynren’s work? Has it helped raise awareness to a broader audience?

Through our Chamber membership, we’ve been able to connect with a wide range of businesses and organisations across the North East, helping us increase awareness of Kynren and its role in the region’s cultural and economic landscape.

The network has also allowed us to share insights into the opportunities available at Kynren, whether through volunteering, corporate engagement or event partnerships.

Over the past ten years, Kynren has established itself as a key visitor attraction, and being part of the Chamber has given us additional opportunities to showcase what we do to a wider audience.

Our presence on the Chamber’s website and participation in networking events has helped us foster relationships with businesses that might not otherwise have been aware of our work.

To what extent has the North East Chamber of Commerce’s extensive network helped Kynren increase visibility and forge new connections with potential donors, volunteers and supporters?

The Chamber’s networking events and business connections have been valuable in introducing us to like-minded organisations across the region.

Attending these events has allowed us to build relationships that support the growth and success of Kynren.

We are also looking forward to expanding our involvement by potentially hosting a future Chamber event at the Kynren site.

This will provide an opportunity to showcase what we do first-hand, and demonstrate how businesses can engage with us in a meaningful way.

With the development of Kynren – The Storied Lands on the horizon, these connections will be even more valuable in raising awareness and building excitement for the new attraction as we move toward the planned opening next summer.

How valuable is it that business organisations like the North East Chamber of Commerce support charities and community interest companies?

Being part of a strong and engaged business network is incredibly valuable for cultural attractions like Kynren.

The Chamber provides a platform for businesses and organisations to connect, share ideas and support each other in driving regional success.

Kynren plays a significant role in bringing visitors to the area and contributing to the local economy, and it’s important that businesses and cultural organisations work together to maximise opportunities for growth and development.

The Chamber helps facilitate these connections, ensuring organisations like Kynren can reach new audiences and build strategic partnerships.

What advice would you offer to other organisations considering a membership with the North East Chamber of Commerce?

Being part of the Chamber opens doors to new opportunities and relationships.

We’d encourage other organisations to make the most of the networking events and forums available, as these provide valuable chances to meet like-minded businesses and explore potential collaborations.

Attending events, engaging with other members and being proactive in sharing your organisation’s story can help raise your profile and lead to unexpected opportunities.

Whether you’re looking to build brand awareness, form partnerships or simply be part of a wider conversation about the future of the region, Chamber membership is a great way to get involved.

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