Criterion Theatre celebrates anniversary with free tickets for young people

In celebration of its 150th anniversary, Criterion Theatre has announced a scheme that gives 150 free tickets weekly for two months for those aged 12 to 21. 

The tickets will be targeted at young people who do not ordinarily have the chance to visit the teacher, and will be supported with teacher packs and a curriculum aligned lesson plan from Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation (CSSF). 

The scheme will be offered initially to schools with the administrative support of CSSF, with whom the theatre already works on its Theatre Skills Workshop programme. Moving forward, it is hoped that the scheme will then be made available more widely. 

On 24 June, a gala performance celebrating the theatre’s history will be held, which will serve as a fundraising event to extend the free ticket scheme beyond the initial 8-week offering. 

The tickets will provide access to see the production currently playing at the theatre – Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York). Producer Tim Johanson said: ‘A perfect show for the scheme, Two Strangers follows two twenty-somethings as they navigate dating apps, life and love in an expensive city, and finding your place in the world.’

Trustee Sally Greene said: ‘The Criterion Theatre Trust has been running this gorgeous venue for over thirty years and we are thrilled to be able to continue our work with young people with this exciting offer to mark the Cri’s 150th.’