Love's Labour's Found

Labour’s relationship with the arts has sadly been characterised first by the cringeworthy Cool Britannia period and thereafter by savage attacks on Labour in government by people such as David Hare. But before the community turned on its erstwhile allies, there was a strong sense that Labour was the true party for the arts, most notably represented by the creation of Arts for Labour in 1981. Thatcher’s savage cuts and promotion of commerce and industry to the detriment of high culture galvanised the arts world and many in it vocally supported Labour in 1997.

We may have fewer luvvies prepared to stand up and champion Labour as the rightful party of the arts, but it’s great to see Eddie Izzard and Kevin Spacey supporting today’s announcement that Labour will provide 618,000 free theatre tickets to under 26 year olds in over 200 theatres up and down England. At a time when the industry fears the public will desert expensive theatre going, it’s great that the government is prepared to help drum up audiences, but more importantly to introduce a new type of audience to the stage.

It was Labour who introduced free entrance to our museums and galleries, enabling thousands of citizens and their families to access our cultural treasures for the first time. Now thousands of young people who have been priced out of performing arts will now have the opportunity to enjoy the best that Britain has to offer.

To find out the nearest theatre offering tickets to under 26 year olds click here

Comments

[Theresamckay]

The Govt scheme anightlessordinary ended on 31st March as they ran out of money after the Govt cuts. Its a real shame that arts are going to get thumped by the cuts.

In response and trying to do my own bit for theatre that I love so much, I have put together my own non-commercial (it doesn't sell anything at all!) site describing the ways that Under 26's and students can still get free / heavily discounted tickets - the page is: http://www.londontheatreticketscheap.com/students-under-26/

I am not ageist (I can't be as I am a long way over 26!) and also included info on how anyone can get cheap / free tickets. Hope you find it useful now that anightlessordinary has gone.

Theresa