The Criterion Theatre celebrates 150 years with free ticket scheme for young people

The iconic Criterion Theatre that sits at the heart of London's West End in Piccadilly Circus is celebrating its 150th anniversary with a brand new scheme to give 150 free tickets each week for eight weeks to 12 – 21 year olds to see the production currently playing at the theatre – Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York) starring Sam Tutty and Dujonna Gift.

To celebrate the theatre’s rich history, a gala fundraising performance will be held on 24 June to raise money to extend the free ticket scheme beyond the initial eight week offering (22 April – 14 June 2024).

The Criterion's famous columned interior

The scheme will be offered initially to schools with the administrative support of Coram Shakespeare Schools Foundation with whom the theatre already works on its Theatre Skills Workshop programme. There are hopes that this scheme will be offered more widely in the future.

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. I am delighted that 150 young people a week will be able to enjoy the wonderful production of Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York) for the next eight weeks.'

More information on the scheme can be found on www.criterion-theatre.co.uk

You can listen to our latest podcast with Sam Tutty here