News from Charlotte Atkins
Labour MP for Staffordshire Moorlands

March 2009

Delivering fantastic theatre for young people in Staffordshire Moorlands

Staffordshire Moorlands Labour MP Charlotte Atkins has welcomed her local theatres’ commitment to offering free theatre tickets for under 26 year olds. New Vic and Regent theatres have signed up to Labour’s free theatre scheme which is offering 618,000 free theatre tickets across England for the next two years.

Charlotte Atkins said: “I am so proud that the theatres have taken up this scheme as it is so important that we make sure as many young people as possible have the chance to go to the theatre. That is what Labour is all about – giving new opportunities to young people.

“I have seen myself how positively young people respond to the theatre, and these theatres have put on many fantastic productions.

“I know that this scheme will help ensure young people in Staffordshire Moorlands get the chance to experience these brilliant productions, and I look forward to working with my local schools and colleges to ensure as many of my local under 26 year olds know about the scheme and apply to the theatres to get their free tickets.
“Having people like Eddie Izzard and Kevin Spacey offer their support is great, and I recommend people view their video clips at www.silverfish.tv/clients/FreeTheatre/Free_Theatre_Tickets_Eddie_and_Kevin.wmv and contact the theatres as soon as possible to get their free tickets”
Andy Burnham, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, said: “Labour has always believed in making the best in life available to everyone. We all know how a visit to the theatre can be a life-changing experience, and it’s incredibly exciting to imagine our theatres full to bursting point with young people. This new scheme sees Labour values in action

“This scheme allows us to unlock seats that might otherwise have remained empty, giving us good value for money, as well as ensuring we open up theatre to as many people as possible. In the same way we opened up access to our great museums and galleries, we are now extending this principal through to the performing arts, and I congratulate all those theatres taking part.”

Eddie Izzard said: "I think free theatre tickets for young people is a great idea, especially as things are getting tough financially right now. I am very pleased that the Labour Party has launched this scheme for under 26 year olds. We have a great British theatrical tradition and I hope people take advantage of this offer."