Bristol Old Vic is taking live theatre directly into secondary schools across the city and surrounding areas, offering free performances to students. This initiative, led by the venue's young MIB260 company, aims to tackle what national leaders have described as an "emergency" for arts access.
The programme is expected to engage up to 4,000 young people across 19 secondary schools, as well as home-educated groups and pupils in hospital education. This expansion follows a significant response to a social media appeal for interest.
One of the touring productions is 'A Brit?ish Museum', a 30-minute play written by Muneera Pilgrim. The production explores contemporary British identity, touching on topics such as the honours system and colonial history, and was performed at City Academy in Bristol.
Lucy Hunt, engagement director at Bristol Old Vic, noted that financial pressures on families and school budgets, alongside logistical challenges like transport and safeguarding, have made traditional theatre trips increasingly difficult. The company's approach ensures that theatre can reach a wider and more diverse audience.