Published: 24 Apr 2025
36 schools attended with over 60% experiencing theatre for the very first time...
On Thursday 27 March 2025 (World Theatre Day), in partnership with Stage Entertainment and Nederlander Theatres, we hosted an Education Matinee at TINA – The Tina Turner Musical in the West End!
It’s one of the cornerstones of our work, as these matinees are created and designed to enable young people to enjoy their first theatrical experience surrounded by their peers and feel inspired to return.
We focus on getting tickets to state schools with a high pupil premium and Alternative Provisions, as so many would love to take their young people to the theatre but the budget is simply not there.
According to the latest Sutton Trust report, 53% of school leaders across primary and secondary schools are now cutting spending on trips and outings, including theatre visits.
Go Live (along with the support of Stage Entertainment) were able to subsidise the ticket prices across the auditorium offering the majority for £10 and some for free.
Students also experienced a pre-show workshop, where they learned about many of the opportunities a career in theatre can offer to include; lighting, sound, wardrobe, hair and make-up, automation and stage management.
It provided a great insight into how a show operates and all the different departments that get the curtain up night-after-night – here’s to encouraging the next generation of not only audiences, but creatives too!
36 state schools, pupil referral units and HE colleges attended
75% of the pupils are from ethnic minority backgrounds
62% of the pupils attended the theatre for the first time
48% of the pupils have special educational needs or disabilities
100% of students said that they would go back to the theatre again
86% said that they would want to take part in future theatre opportunities
Watch our video to really get a feel for the day and hear over 900 young people having “Simply the Best” time!
Plus, take a look at our Instagram for an exclusive curtain call moment – SOUND ON!
Here’s just a selection of feedback from teachers and students…
“The workshop of the inner workings was great; the presenters and staff provided a detailed layer to the show that many wouldn’t have understand from just seeing the show. So, the workshop was priceless” Teacher Feedback
“They loved it! They loved how diverse the show was, how it made the careers interesting.” Teacher Feedback
“Utterly speechless! And out of control with my emotions (I did cry)”
“Very inspirational, lot of skill and work needed to perform that well”
“The joy from the stage filled the theatre. So inspiring to me!”
Accessible and inclusive programmes like this are just not possible without your support.
Donate today to help ensure every child, regardless of background, has the chance to experience the transformative power of live theatre and open doors for the next generation.
If you’re a trust, foundation, company, organisation or private individual that would like to explore supporting our work in a specific way, please get in touch using the form below.
Video: www.chaaustaoglu.com
Photos: @charlieflintphotography
