Polka Theatre doubles free schools’ tickets in Curtain Up! scheme

In response to the financial struggles of schools, the Polka Theatre has doubled its free school ticket allocation by the summer holidays, with plans to give away 4,000 school tickets by the end of the summer term. 

Previously, the free ticket scheme Curtain Up! has enabled at least 2,000 primary school children per year from disadvantaged locations in Merton and the surrounding boroughs. 

Since the Wimbledon-based theatre reopened last autumn after its major redevelopment, Polka has hosted 22 schools in Curtain Up! Performances. 

The expansion of the scheme is in response to the lasting impact of Covid, with schools struggling financially and practically to take children to the theatre. 

Alongside the free tickets, Polka are offering schools travel support and flexible booking policies. 

Lynette Shanbury, executive director of Polka Theatre, said: ‘We are in awe of the teachers, teaching assistants and school staff that we work with every day. Their determination to help children navigate this sometimes unfathomable world is incredible. We know how hard it is right now to plan a trip to the theatre, to get the funds, to plan the travel, to try to do it even when staff Covid absences are causing so many problems. 

‘This is a tough world for children at the moment – the impact of Covid continues to cause immense stress and anxiety, and inequality is a growing, monstrous issue. Theatre gives children a creative outlet, an escapist ride into the world of stories, a way to reflect on their own world, and a chance to experience emotional journeys together. We want to make sure they don’t miss out.’ 

Curtain Up! is available only by application to ensure it reaches the most disadvantaged children in Merton, Corydon, Wandsworth and other surrounding boroughs. 

polkatheatre.com