Can't set Flash variable with setVariable!

[THKPT]

Hi,

I'm having problem setting a variable in a flash throught Director with Lingo.
Here's the code I'm using

sprite(flashSprite).puppet = true
sprite(flashSprite).ink = 36
sprite(flashSprite).loc = point(400,300)
sprite(flashSprite).member = member("helpFlash&quot
-- var_param is global on flash (defined on first frame) & state is global on Director (is a string)
sprite(flashSprite).setVariable("var_param", state)

I get this error when running:

Script Error: Handler Not Found In Object
sprite(flashSprite).setVariable("var_param", state)
#setVariable

if I remove the sprite(flashSprite).setVariable("var_param", state) line the flash works just fine
Instead of using state variable I've tried to use a string but still the error occurs

I'll apreciate some help.

Thanks