We're taking part in Big Give's #ChristmasChallenge

Newcastle Theatre Royal is taking part in the Big Give’s #ChristmasChallenge 2025, aiming to raise £5,000 in one week to launch its new Showtime Shuttle project designed to remove transport cost barriers for young people across the North East and improve access to live theatre.

The campaign officially opens at 12 noon on Giving Tuesday (Tue 2 Dec) and runs until Tue 9 Dec. During this week, supporters donations will be match-funded, meaning one donation goes twice as far. The match funding has been generously pledged by Friends of Newcastle Theatre Royal, two individual donors and Big Give champions Reed Foundation.

Jo Kirby, Director of Audiences and Communications at Newcastle Theatre Royal, said: “The cost of transport is a real barrier to attending the theatre for many schools across our region. During the Big Give, every donation, no matter the size, will be doubled. It’s an incredible opportunity for supporters to make twice the impact and allow children who otherwise might not have been able to visit, the chance to experience the joy of theatre.”

Reaching the £5,000 target will support 350 young people, particularly from high pupil premium and SEND schools, to visit Newcastle Theatre Royal throughout 2026. The initiative will help at least five schools provide transport to access performances and engagement opportunities over the next 12 months, aiming to build pupils’ confidence, wellbeing and creativity in a cultural environment.

A recent survey found that 37% of local schools identified cost and travel logistics as the biggest barriers to theatre visits – meaning fewer young people are accessing the cultural experiences that support emotional development and vital life skills.

Kim Hoffmann, Director of Creative Engagement, said: “This funding will help us welcome young people to Newcastle Theatre Royal who might never have had the chance otherwise. The Showtime Shuttle initiative removes the transport cost barrier for schools, which we know exists even on top of heavily subsidised or free tickets,  and allows young people to experience the joy and confidence that live theatre can inspire. Just one visit can spark something magic, that shapes a young person’s future and helps them feel that theatre, and Newcastle Theatre Royal, belongs to them.”

Supporters can donate via debit or credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or BACS through the Big Give link on the Newcastle Theatre Royal website, or directly on the Big Give campaign page from Tue 2 – Tue 9 Dec 2025.

Match funded by Friends of Newcastle Theatre Royal, Reed Foundation & Northern Gas and Power.