Some of Nottingham’s most vulnerable children have been given an early Christmas present thanks to the city’s major theatres.
Nottingham Playhouse and the Nottingham Theatre Royal are both supporting young children in care by giving them completely free tickets to their Pantomimes this year – Dick Whittington and Aladdin respectively. Younger children will also have the chance to see Hare and Tortoise at the Playhouse.
The children will get to see the magic of panto and learn why so many love to see the dazzling costumes, stunning sets, mischievous fun and thrilling musical numbers that excite the whole family.
Councillor David Mellen, Portfolio Holder for Early Intervention and Early Years, said: “Giving these children the chance to experience something fun and exciting at this time of year will be an invaluable experience for them. Thanks to these theatre companies, children in care will be able to experience the fun of live theatre.
“Some of these children may have never been to the theatre and these businesses are making Christmas a little brighter for some of our children in care. Christmas is about giving and the fact these major City theatres have offered to give something back to their local community is testament to themselves and to the city as a whole.”
The tickets have been given to over 300 children for Dick Whittington at the Playhouse and Aladdin at the Theatre Royal.
Robert Sanderson, Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall’s Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer tickets to Aladdin to those in our community who might not otherwise have been able to experience the magic of our Christmas production. Panto is a great Christmas tradition for so many local families, and for many children it is their first experience of live theatre.”
Stephanie Sirr, Chief Executive at Nottingham Playhouse, said: “We’re delighted to be able to give the gift of theatre to children in care over Christmas. The 50:50 appeal relies on the generous donations of the public, many thanks to all who have donated throughout the year to make this possible.”
Tickets have also been given to the littlest ones to see Hare and Tortoise. It’s aimed at 4 to 8 year olds and is a fast (and slow!), fun-packed show about friendship, the passing of time, and the excitement of growing up.