London's top theatres give free tickets to young people

TWENTY-FIVE London theatres are to take part in the Government's free tickets for young people scheme.

From 16 February, 18- to 26-year-olds will be able to take advantage of free tickets. For two years they will be available on a first come, first served basis.

The National, the Barbican and the Rose Theatre in Kingston are each getting funds of £50,000 for the initiative.

The Battersea Arts Centre, Donmar Warehouse, Royal Court and the Tricycle are part of an off-West End consortium of 12 venues sharing another £300,000.

And more cash is going to venues including the Roundhouse, the Gate, the Orange Tree in Richmond and artsdepot in North Finchley.

A dedicated website will have venue and booking instructions.

Alan Davey, chief executive of Arts Council England, which will run the scheme, said venues had responded "with energy and imagination".

Dominic Cooke, artistic director of the Royal Court Theatre, said: "We look forward to seeing theatre enrich and inspire ever-increasing numbers of young people."