Polka Theatre to double free schools' tickets in response to funding barriers

London children’s theatre Polka is set to double the number of free tickets it offers local primary schools in response to the financial struggles they are facing.

The Wimbledon theatre said the lasting impact of Covid meant schools are finding it challenging both financially and logistically to take their pupils on theatre trips, and will give away 4,000 tickets by the end of this year’s summer term. 

It marks a significant expansion of Polka’s Curtain Up! scheme, which is already established and pledges to enable at least 2,000 primary-school children to go to the theatre for free each year, focusing on schools in Merton and the surrounding south London boroughs. Schools will also be offered travel support.

Polka’s executive director Lynette Shanbury said the expanded scheme hoped to remove the financial barrier to theatre attendance, particularly as schools continue to grapple with the complexities of the pandemic.

"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," she said.

Curtain Up! is available by application, which Polka said helps it reach children living in disadvantaged areas, to schools with financial barriers to taking part in arts activities and schools working with children with special educational needs. It plans to support 4,000 children a year in Merton, Croydon, Wandsworth and other boroughs. 

The theatre reopened last autumn following a £8.5 million redevelopment, and has already hosted 22 Curtain Up! performances for more than 1,700 children.