Children’s theatre Polka is making 4,000 free school tickets available before the end of the school year through Curtain Up!
The commitment doubles the scheme’s previous allocation, which offers free theatre tickets to primary school children from disadvantaged locations in Merton and surrounding boroughs.
Since reopening last autumn, Polka has hosted 1,700 pupils from 22 schools at Curtain Up! performances.
The scheme's growth responds to the lasting impact of Covid, with schools struggling financially and organisationally to bring children to performances, the theatre says.
"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," said Polka's Executive Director Lynette Shanbury.