Venues offer £3 tickets to people on low incomes

A theatre and live performance venue is offering £3 tickets to people on low incomes who want to attend its shows.

The Octagon and Westlands in Yeovil are both offering more than 600 low priced tickets throughout the year for selected events to ensure that everyone in the community has a chance to see a live performance.

"Our venues are central community hubs, and we are constantly striving to improve access to our programme" said Adam Burgan, the manager of the venues.

Anyone receiving government benefits qualifies for the Accessible Ticket Scheme which has been devised in collaboration with Abri Housing Group.

"We are proud to be introducing our Accessible Ticket Scheme at a time when rising prices are impacting the communities we serve," Mr Burgan added.

Lisa Hatfield, Abri's Community Development Officer said: "This initiative is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to experience arts, dance, and creativity, making these shows accessible to all."

"Our focus on the health and wellbeing of our customers shines through this initiative, helping to combat loneliness and improve mental health by providing access to such events."

The scheme compliments the venue's existing SHiNE Bursary Fund which helps individuals on low incomes attend creative workshops and classes.

The bursary is also open to recipients of Free School Meals or Pupil Premium and either fully or partially funded support are provided depending on individual need.

Both schemes have been helped by the venue becoming an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.

Being an NPO gives them access to £760,000 of funding to put towards cultural activities in Somerset until 2026.

The scheme is currently live and the venue says it has already had multiple applicants.