The National Theatre has partnered with the NHS to give 400 NHS workers free tickets to watch a live performance of Nye – Tim Price’s (Teh Internet is Serious Business) new play directed by Rufus Norris (Small Island), charting the life of Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan and his battle to create the NHS, playing in the Olivier theatre.
To celebrate Nye as the 100th release from National Theatre Live, the National Theatre in collaboration with Vue has also invited 1000 NHS workers nationwide to watch the live broadcast in cinemas on 23 April, extending its commitment to share impactful stories that inspire and unite people.
The National Theatre has worked with the NHS to ensure tickets are allocated across the NHS including doctors, nurses, and student doctors for both the South Bank performance and Vue cinema tickets.
Michael Sheen plays Nye Bevan in a surreal and spectacular journey through the life and legacy of the man who transformed Britain’s welfare state and created the NHS, in this co-production with Wales Millennium Centre. Confronted with death, Aneurin ‘Nye’ Bevan’s deepest memories lead him on a mind-bending journey back through his life; from childhood to mining underground, Parliament and fights with Churchill.
Rufus Norris, Director of Nye and Director of the National Theatre, said, “I am honoured to extend a heartfelt invitation to NHS workers to share in this powerful story. This moment epitomises the National Theatre’s commitment to extending the reach of theatre to audiences wherever they are, both at the South Bank and through National Theatre Live. In collaboration with the NHS, we celebrate not only a historic moment, but also the ongoing journey to make theatre an accessible experience for everyone.”
Amanda Pritchard Chief Executive of NHS England, said, “Since Nye Bevan launched the NHS in 1948, it has never stood still – our history is one of innovation and adaption to meet the changing needs of the public, but the principles and the unwavering dedication always remain the same. And that is why it is such an honour that we will be joined by a range of NHS staff – past and present – to watch Nye at the National Theatre while giving hundreds of others the opportunity to see it across the country.”
Toby Bradon, General Manager for Vue UK and Ireland, said, “We are passionate about making quality event cinema such as live theatre accessible throughout the country on the Big Screen, and we are delighted that our partnership with National Theatre goes from strength to strength as they make their 100th production available. In particular, we are happy to welcome NHS workers to our screens across the country so they can be a part of this premiere that celebrates the origins of such a vital institution.”
More information about Nye at the National Theatre can be found here
