Aberdeen Performing Arts has teamed up with First Bus to bring the festive magic of live theatre to more families than ever this Christmas.
The initiative was made possible by funding of £10,000 from Aberdeen City Council’s Anti-poverty and Inequality Committee, which will pay for families facing adversity to attend Jack and the Beanstalk at His Majesty’s Theatre.
The funding has allowed Aberdeen Performing Arts to provide the full pantomime experience for these families, making the entire outing feel equitable to everyone else in the theatre. This includes tickets, an ice cream for each family member, a programme, and a toy for each child from the venue merchandise stall, ensuring a truly magical and inclusive experience.
To further enhance the support, First Bus has offered complimentary travel to the shows for families who are part of the initiative. The travel company has provided the offer to further break down barriers to attending and ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience the festive performances.
The partnership is the latest offer the two organisations have joined forces on to provide opportunities to watch arts and culture, drive city centre footfall and encourage sustainable travel.
Aberdeen Performing Arts head of creative engagement, Susan Whyte, said: “The Anti-poverty and Inequality Committee has made a huge difference to so many families facing financial and societal struggles this year, and we are delighted that, thanks to this funding, we have been able to share the festive magic of live performance in our venues with more people than ever before.
“The fund has aided us at Aberdeen Performing Arts in fulfilling one of our priority aims, which is to provide opportunities to engage with the arts to those who would otherwise not be able to take part."
Susan added: “We are incredibly grateful to First Bus for the generous offer of complimentary travel. The company's support has meant that even more people will be able to benefit from this opportunity and enjoy a day out to a festive show this Christmas time.”
Graeme Macfarlan, commercial director for First Bus Scotland, said: “The festive period can be a really difficult time for people across the country and we’re delighted to be able to support Aberdeen Performing Arts in this initiative to bring a little bit of cheer this Christmas completely free of charge.
“The bus not only moves people but moves society and we look forward to bringing families from across the city to enjoy Jack and the Beanstalk at His Majesty’s Theatre in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way.”
Aberdeen City Council's Anti-poverty and Inequality Committee convener Councillor Christian Allard and vice-convener Councillor Desmond Bouse said: “Experiencing some festive fun is important for families across our city and we are delighted to have been able to provide funding to Aberdeen Performing Arts to allow families to experience the festive magic of the pantomime. We hope all those attending have a fantastic time.
"We are also pleased to once again work in partnership with First Bus who have offered free bus travel to the families, which we hope will mean their Christmas day out will be enjoyed even more."
For more information on Aberdeen Performing Arts please visit www.aberdeenperformingarts.com