3/10 Reason to Support NYAT: Making theatre accessible to all
In 2024, average top price seat at West End was £154.56, the cheapest ticket cost was £24.58.
9.3% year on year price rise in theatre ticket, faster than inflation, is deeply concerning young artists who yearn to attend theatre shows but can’t due to finances.
NYAT has distributed 836 free theatre tickets till 2024. We are launching Theatre 500 Campaign to distribute 500 free theatre tickets in 2025 to financially disadvantaged young artists.
Help us raise £10k this Christmas season
to help us distribute 500 free theatre tickets in 2025 & more
What difference can a free theatre ticket make to a young artist’s life? See what our young people said after receiving a free theatre ticket from NYAT:
“I haven’t had much opportunity to see Shakespeare and it can often feel like it’s reserved for the elite and “educated”. Having a free ticket to the show allowed me to be exposed to something I wouldn’t have normally seen.”
Jamimah Hatooho
“Having access to west-end shows are so vital in a time where it’s growing to be less accessible with prices. Having access allows me to grow in my knowledge of the industry standard set in all aspects of theatre, at its main hub.”
Raphel
“Thanks for the lovely tickets! The cost of living has made it nearly impossible for me to enjoy theatre these days and as an aspiring actor I find it heart breaking sometimes. Thank you to the NYAT for keeping me connected to my craft and doing beautiful work in slightly dark times. One day when I’m a successful actor I hope to give back to like you guys have.”
Luther Osei
“I wouldn’t have been able to see the show without NYAT’s free tickets. As an actor just leaving drama school it’s so important to see as much theatre as possible and stay connected to what’s going on in the industry & so schemes like this which make it accessible are invaluable.”
Tumi Olufawo
“I am incredibly grateful for the free tickets, especially as a full time drama school student. With tight finances and a demanding schedule, getting my hands on tickets can be really challenging so this felt like a real gift. We left feeling so inspired. :)”
Tima Camara
“I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to go and see Coriolanus at the National Theatre free of charge, a privilege made possible by NYAT and their free ticket scheme for young people facing financial challenges within the arts.”
Olivia Saunders
“I would never have been able to afford to see Coriolanus at NT without the NYAT. It’s important to stay up to date with what’s on as an actor so it was a brilliant experience.”
