Schools can now apply for tickets for the performance of Sylvia on Friday 13th November which will welcome almost 5,000 pupils to the venue, staged by Go Live Theatre and supported by The Garek Trust.
The critically acclaimed musical Sylvia tells the story of Sylivia Pankhurst and her role in the Suffragette movement, set against a soundtrack of funk, soul, gospel and hip hop. The show, featuring Olivier Award-winner Beverley Knight in the title role, begins a UK tour in September before concluding at the Royal Albert Hall in November.
Go Live Theatre is partnering with The Garek Trust, a charity aimed at helping under privileged children access theatre, to stage the UK’s largest ever education matinee on 13th November, inviting almost 5,000 pupils to attend the production’s first performance at the iconic London venue.
Tickets will be priced at £10 each (for pupils and staff) as part of Go Live’s commitment to improving access to live theatre for young people.
Sita McIntosh, CEO of Go Live Theatre said, “We know first-hand the lasting impact that live theatre can have on young people - with thanks to The Garek Trust nearly 5,000 children and young people have the opportunity to experience this inspiring production.”
Beverley Knight, patron of Go Live Theatre, added: “It’s such a privilege to be a part of such a landmark event. To welcome nearly 5,000 young people into the Royal Albert Hall to experience the power of live theatre through Sylvia feels incredibly special - and there could not be a more fitting venue for a story about courage, activism and freedom.”
More than a theatre
As the host of more than 20 suffragette rallies, including some of the movements most important speeches, the Royal Albert Hall holds a significant place in suffragette history.
The first meeting for the suffragette movement was held at the Hall in 1908, as it was the largest meeting place in London. Suffragettes were subsequently banned from the Hall between 1913 and 1918, making Sylvia’s arrival at the venue especially resonant.
The story of Sylvia
Sylvia Pankhurst - fearless, flawed, and unforgettable. The untold story of the rebellious middle child of Emmeline Pankhurst takes centre stage in this hip hop, funk and soul musical.
Whilst her mother and sister battled for women’s suffrage, Sylvia ignited a revolution for the forgotten: working women, the impoverished, the silenced. Caught between her family and her beliefs, Sylvia risked it all to bring change to millions.
Eleanor Lloyd, co-producer of Sylvia said, “Sylvia has had a remarkable journey from The Old Vic to a UK tour and now finishing at the Royal Albert Hall with the biggest education matinee ever staged in the UK.
“The story of Sylvia Pankhurst remains as powerful and relevant as ever, and this production offers young people an inspiring and accessible way into that history. We’re honoured to collaborate with Go Live Theatre, whose work continues to transform access to live performance for thousands of young people.”
About Go Live Theatre
Since 1997 when it was founded as Mousetrap Theatre Projects, Go Live Theatre has enabled more than 275,000 children and young people to experience live theatre. In 2021, it presented the very first relaxed performance of a West End show with Shrek the Musical and has since offered several shows including Hamilton, Wicked and The Play That Goes Wrong.
Working on a variety of programmes, the organisation aims to give those from disadvantaged and/or vulnerable backgrounds the chance to access theatre trips that would otherwise be unattainable due to financial or physical reasons.
Through these trips, Go Live Theatre hopes to inspire creative talent amongst future generations and instil a passion for theatre and live performance.
Schools can apply now for tickets for the matinee performance of Sylvia on 13th November. Tickets are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Find full details and apply for tickets here.
