Lisa Parkinson, Makeup Designer

How do you think the production landscape has changed in the region over the past 5 years?

I remember when Yorkshire TV decided to stop making Heartbeat and The Royal, because of the recession, it hit our region very badly. Independents were not making anything, but as the economy strengthened the productions came back. There are very few places with our heritage and beautiful backdrops, crew are very willing and capable of the job. With the likes of Screen Yorkshire showcasing our amazing locations and talented crew, I think we will go from strength to strength.

I’m very proud to be from Yorkshire.

What was your path into film and TV?

I went to college to do a BTEC in media makeup and hairdressing and started work experience in the West Yorkshire Playhouse learning about wigs.

What are some recent projects that you've worked on in Yorkshire?

When Covid hit I was working on Ackley Bridge series 4 for The Forge, before this is I had been very fortunate to design the new All Creatures Great and Small 7 part drama for Channel 5.

All Creatures Great and Small @ Playground Television for Channel 5 / Screen Yorkshire

Tell us about any particular highlights or any notable challenges that you have overcome during your career in the industry?

Every part of my job has been a challenge and a highlight. Finding my first ever role in drama as a trainee and then being taken on as a trainee by David Myers (now a Hairy Biker) who promoted me to assistant on the drama Spooks
My biggest highlight was my first design job on a Yorkshire TV childrens’ drama called Hank Zipzer and doing All Creatures Great and Small in Yorkshire about Yorkshire people was a massively proud moment

What do you love about working in Yorkshire? What makes it different to filming in other regions?

I love the landscape, I love the people, they are absolute characters and on the whole we are received well. Yorkshire people tell it like it is and I’m proud to be one of them.

Do you have any advice for people starting out in the industry generally or your department in particular?

I would say never give up.

Do as much work experience as possible with people in the industry as that will enable them to see your character. Show that you are keen its not about skills at this stage.

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