Tyne Theatre campaign looks to support young people's access to live entertainment

Newcastle’s Tyne Theatre has joined a campaign to support young people’s access to performances.

The site is taking part in the Big Give’s ChristmasChallenge 2025, aiming to raise £5,000 in one week to launch its new Showtime Shuttle project designed to remove transport cost barriers for young people across the North East and improve access to live theatre.

The campaign officially opens at 12 noon on Tuesday, December 2 and runs until Tuesday, December 9.

Newcastle's Theatre Royal is well known across the region and many people's first visit would have been for the site's annual pantomime. You may not remember your first but it's a tradition for many families!

During this week, supporters donations will be match-funded, this has been generously pledged by Friends of Newcastle Theatre Royal, two individual donors and Big Give champions The Reed Foundation.

Jo Kirby, Director of Audiences and Communications at Newcastle Theatre Royal, said: “The cost of transport is a real barrier to attending the theatre for many schools across our region.

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“During the Big Give, every donation, no matter the size, will be doubled. It’s an incredible opportunity for supporters to make twice the impact and allow children who otherwise might not have been able to visit, the chance to experience the joy of theatre.”

Reaching the £5,000 target will support 350 young people, particularly from high pupil premium and SEND schools, to visit Newcastle Theatre Royal throughout 2026.

The initiative will help at least five schools provide transport to access performances and engagement opportunities over the next 12 months, aiming to build pupils’ confidence, wellbeing and creativity in a cultural environment.