The Richardson Brothers Foundation has funded a pilot travel scheme, providing schools with complimentary coach travel to and from the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre.
Schools within the Brierley Hill area (DY5) who have at least 25% of pupils receiving a pupil premium, will be offered complimentary travel to and from the theatre when booking to see a production within the next 12 months.
The travel scheme is the theatre’s response to feedback from schools who are finding it more difficult to fund extra-curricular visits. It also supports the UK Theatre national advocacy campaign, Theatre For Every Child; a national initiative that supports the right for every child to experience a visit to a theatre.
Jan Jennings, speaking on behalf of the Richardson Brothers Foundation, said:
“The Foundation is delighted to support this pilot travel scheme that provides new opportunities for children and young people in Brierley Hill so they can enjoy the experience of visiting the wonderful Grand Theatre in Wolverhampton. We look forward to hearing back from the school, the theatre and Prospect Coaches about how the scheme works and the opportunities it will bring.”
Adrian Jackson, CEO and Artistic Director of Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, added:
“The community is at the heart of everything we do here at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre and young people are an integral part of the community. One visit to the theatre could inspire a creative career path and a lifelong passion for the arts and this is something we should encourage year on year.”
If schools want to apply for complimentary travel they should contact Vicky Price, Associate Director, Audiences and Communication at vickyp@grandtheatre.co.uk